Demetrious Johnson thinks Arman Tsarukyan can beat Ilia Topuria. After training with Tsarukyan, Johnson believes he has the athletic ability and skill set to defeat the champion.
What happened?
Demetrious Johnson trained with Arman Tsarukyan and came away impressed. He thinks Tsarukyan should fight the winner of Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria.
Why it matters for Demetrious Johnson
Johnson's endorsement carries weight, given his experience fighting elite wrestlers and strikers. He knows what it takes to win at the highest level.
What comes next?
Arman Tsarukyan is preparing for a potential title shot, despite the UFC passing him over due to behavioral issues and pullouts. He's staying ready, regardless of when the opportunity comes.
Demetrious Johnson said, "After training with him, if he fights Ilia Topuria, I think he has the athletic ability, the skill set, and the mindset to beat Ilia Topuria."
Arman Tsarukyan is keen to fight Ilia Topuria, even offering to buy his $3.5 million Madrid home if he agrees to a fight. Topuria has been vocal about not wanting to fight Tsarukyan, but the Armenian's offer keeps their potential fight in the news.
On February 11, 2026, Demetrious Johnson's assessment of Arman Tsarukyan was shared on social media, lending credibility to Tsarukyan's title ambitions. Johnson's experience and expertise make his endorsement a significant boost for Tsarukyan.
Ilia Topuria has a perfect record, with 17 wins and no losses. But Demetrious Johnson believes Arman Tsarukyan has what it takes to beat him. The question is, will the UFC give Tsarukyan the chance to prove it?
Arman Tsarukyan's training with Demetrious Johnson shows he's serious about his title ambitions. He's staying focused and ready, waiting for his opportunity to fight for the championship.
The lightweight division is highly competitive, but Demetrious Johnson thinks Arman Tsarukyan has the skills to succeed. With his athletic ability and skill set, Tsarukyan could be a major threat to Ilia Topuria's title