Ilia Topuria
One of the most popular MMA fighters today, Ilia Topuria is not the only one on Arman Tsarukyan’s radar.
After defeating Teofimo Lopez last month in New York, Shakur Stevenson, the world boxing champion, surprised many and left the door open to welcome the Georgian into the sport.
It all started when YouTuber Adin Ross claimed that the UFC is better than boxing, and that Ilia Topuria and Jon Jones would be dominant in the ring.
It was only seconds before Shakur responded, stating that he had doubts about whether the MMA legends would achieve the same success in boxing.
Willing to test his theory, the undefeated boxer showed confidence and challenged the UFC lightweight champion to a fight.
The comment didn’t go unnoticed after Topuria indicated that he is considering the possibility of moving to boxing to face Canelo Alvarez or Terence Crawford.
“You have to take back what you said—that the UFC is better than boxing—that’s not true. It doesn’t compare.”
“The level of skill is completely different. No way—tell him to come fight me,” Stevenson replied.
Despite Stevenson’s provocation and the interest in a boxing match, a fight with Topuria is unlikely.
“The Matador” has an exclusive contract with the UFC, which prevents him from competing in rival organizations or other combat sports, except for grappling.
In fact, Dana White is known for not allowing his athletes to face professional boxers in the ring.
