Topuria Prefers Vacating Title Over Facing Tsarukyan, Claims Belal Muhammad

Belal Muhammad, an American Mixed Martial Artist (MMA), voiced his support on Thursday for Arman Tsarukyan, stating he is deserving of a title opportunity against lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.

Following his impressive knockout victory over Charles Oliveira in June, Topuria has ascended to stardom in the mixed martial arts world, securing the lightweight belt.

This win places Topuria among a select group of fighters who have achieved UFC titles across two weight divisions.

Despite being the top contender, Ilia Topuria chose to confront Paddy Pimblett post-fight. He has also indicated a preference to relinquish his title rather than compete against Tsarukyan.

However, former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad has defended Tsarukyan, endorsing his claim for a title shot.

In a discussion on his YouTube channel, Muhammad asserted Tsarukyan’s worthiness, stating,

“I mean if you see it, you do see it a little bit, Ilia saying he won’t fight him. He’ll give up the belt before fighting him. I don’t know where that came from. I do think Arman is worthy of a title shot, especially after weighing in as a backup, the last one,” Muhammad said.

Muhammad elaborated that while he faces criticism for withdrawing from his bout against Islam Makhachev, the UFC is aware if the reason was due to a legitimate injury. He added that reaching the fight without the chance to compete would be devastating.

“People keep coming at him for the pull out of Islam fight, but I mean, if it was truly an injury, obviously the UFC knows, and like I said, one of the hardest things in this sport to make it to fight night,” Muhammad added.“The only way to train is to fight. Every single day at practice, we put our bodies through a lot. So, if he made it that far and he didn’t get the reward of fighting, I’m sure it broke him and made him upset.

“So, if it was legit injury and he did weigh up as backup, I do think he deserves a title shot.”