Arman Tsarukyan climbed the P4P rankings and challenged Topuria: “You’re scared”

After UFC 317 — an event that reshaped the power dynamics at the top of MMA — Arman Tsarukyan climbed to 13th place in the pound-for-pound (P4P) rankings, which lists the best fighters regardless of weight class. This is an important milestone for the Armenian representative, further solidifying his position in the elite of both the lightweight division and the UFC overall.

Tsarukyan continues his steady rise in the lightweight category as well, where he now ranks second, trailing only the champion. The burning question for fans: will the Topuria vs. Tsarukyan fight happen, and if it does — who will emerge victorious?

Expert opinion

Fight Nights president Kamil Gadzhiev also commented on Topuria’s meteoric rise:

"Absolutely deserved. The P4P ranking is based on a mathematical formula: result, method, time of victory, and level of opposition. Topuria scored an explosive and quick win in a new weight class. Right now, he’s a flawless fighter."

However, formulas don’t always account for one thing — styles make fights. And in terms of style matchups, Arman Tsarukyan might be exactly the fighter capable of stopping the new P4P king in his tracks.

The biggest shock came when Ilia Topuria — who won the featherweight title in February — claimed the No. 1 spot in the P4P rankings. After UFC 317, the Georgian-Spanish fighter made a triumphant lightweight debut, defeating Charles Oliveira in lightning-fast fashion. That victory earned him a second UFC belt and moved him up two spots, overtaking former P4P leader Islam Makhachev.

Tsarukyan vs. Topuria: The rivalry continues

Despite Topuria’s recent success, Arman Tsarukyan believes the champion is avoiding a real challenge. According to the Armenian fighter, Topuria’s refusal to fight him is rooted in fear. He didn’t mince words:

“Running away from the true contender proves only one thing — you’re scared. Deep down, you know what would happen if you ever stepped into the cage with me.”

Tsarukyan has hinted before that fighting him isn’t just a test — it’s a genuine threat to any champion. His April win over Charles Oliveira and a string of dominant performances speak volumes.

UFC P4P Rankings: New Leader

Updated ranking:

1. Ilia Topuria (17–0)

2. Islam Makhachev (27–1)

3. Merab Dvalishvili (20–4)