Justin Gaethje says Arman Tsarukyan is far more deserving of title shot than Ilia Topuria: “He’s not fighting me next”

Justin Gaethje continues to dismiss an immediate rematch with Ilia Topuria.

Gaethje pulled off a huge upset at the conclusion of UFC Freedom 250, forcing Topuria’s corner to quit on the stool before the fifth round of their undisputed UFC Lightweight Championship fight. “The Highlight” battered Topuria’s face to the point where he caused an orbital injury. Gaethje delivered such damage that some are even questioning if “El Matador” will ever recapture the magic he had prior to suffering the first defeat of his pro MMA career.

If Topuria is hoping for revenge, it likely won’t happen anytime soon. During an interview with RMC Sport Combat, Gaethje ruled out the chances of Topuria getting an immediate rematch, and named Arman Tsarukyan as a more deserving contender.

“He’s not fighting me next,” Gaethje said. “Why would he fight me next? Arman deserves it way more than him, and then a couple of fights are gonna happen between now and then. I didn’t knock him out. I didn’t get lucky. I beat him up. He’s going to have to get a win before he fights for a championship. He might go back to 145. We don’t know what Ilia’s doing.”

Gaethje isn’t convinced that Topuria wants to face him again right away, but he does think the former two-division champion might be a nightmare for whoever he steps inside the Octagon with next.

“If I hear him use his mouth and say, ‘I want a rematch,’ I’ll be very surprised,” Gaethje said. “He’s [expletive] good. The kid’s good. Whoever fights him next is gonna be in trouble. It ain’t gonna be me.”

Many MMA fans and pundits agree with Gaethje’s stance, and have been calling for Tsarukyan to get the next 155-pound title opportunity. One also can’t rule out possible rematches with Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway. “The Highlight” isn’t short on options even if Topuria is out of the equation.

Who do you think will end up being Justin Gaethje’s first challenger, and do you agree that Ilia Topuria should have to take another fight before challenging for the gold again? Tell us what you think in the comments below.