Charles Oliveira predicts Arman Tsarukyan's path to beat Ilia Topuria

Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira has identified a critical factor that could give Arman Tsarukyan the edge over Ilia Topuria in their highly anticipated matchup. The Brazilian veteran, speaking ahead of the potential clash, pointed to Tsarukyan's wrestling prowess as the key to unlocking a victory against the dominant Georgian-Spanish fighter.

What did Oliveira say about the matchup?

Oliveira, who has faced both fighters in the past, emphasized Tsarukyan's ability to control the fight on the ground. 'Arman has that wrestling base that can really trouble Ilia,' Oliveira stated. 'If he can take him down and keep him there, that's where the fight changes.' The comment comes as Topuria prepares for what could be his toughest test yet in the lightweight division.

Why does this matter for Ilia Topuria?

Topuria has built a reputation as one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC, with a perfect record of 15-0. However, Oliveira's assessment highlights a potential vulnerability in Topuria's game. While the Georgian-Spanish fighter has shown strong takedown defense in the past, Tsarukyan's wrestling could pose a unique challenge. This matchup would be a significant step up in competition for Topuria, who is looking to solidify his place among the elite in the lightweight division.

What's next for Ilia Topuria?

As of now, no official date has been set for the potential fight between Topuria and Tsarukyan. However, the UFC is reportedly working to finalize the bout for later this year. Topuria, who has been on a tear in the featherweight division, is expected to make the move up to lightweight in the near future. If the fight against Tsarukyan materializes, it could be a defining moment in Topuria's career, with a potential title shot on the line.