Ilia Topuria chants rock Arman Tsarukyan as UFC rival dominates in Georgia

Ilia Topuria’s name rang out in Tbilisi on July 11 as Arman Tsarukyan wrestled to another dominant win in Georgia. The UFC lightweight contender, born in Georgia but representing Armenia, faced a hostile crowd chanting for Topuria during his RAF match against Kuat Khamitov.

Tsarukyan, now 7-0 in Real American Freestyle, secured a technical fall victory over Khamitov. The crowd, packed with Topuria supporters, booed Tsarukyan’s entrance and repeatedly chanted the UFC featherweight champion’s name. This marked Tsarukyan’s first RAF bout outside the U.S., adding to his active wrestling schedule while awaiting his next UFC fight.

The rivalry between Topuria and Tsarukyan extends beyond the Octagon. Both fighters share Georgian roots, though Topuria identifies more closely with Spain. The crowd’s reaction underscores Topuria’s popularity in Georgia, even as Tsarukyan dominates in wrestling. This dynamic could fuel future UFC matchups, especially with Tsarukyan’s lightweight ambitions.

Tsarukyan will return to the RAF mat on July 18 in Milwaukee, facing Colby Covington. Meanwhile, Topuria remains the UFC featherweight champion, with his next title defense still unconfirmed. The wrestling crowd’s chants may have been a distraction for Tsarukyan, but his focus remains on staying undefeated in RAF before returning to MMA.