Dana White has revealed the designated backup fighter for the main event of UFC 250, scheduled for June 14. The headliner for this significant event is set to be a lightweight championship unification bout between the current champion, Ilia Topuria, and the interim champion, Justin Gaethje.
Arman Tsarukyan has been officially confirmed as the backup fighter for the lightweight title unification clash between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.
During a recent conversation with Nina-Marie Daniele, UFC President Dana White confirmed this decision, stating, “Arman is the backup for the White House fight. So if anything happens for that fight, Arman’s in there.”
Tsarukyan had expressed his desire to be a backup fighter for this title match, a role he has previously filled. Last year, he served as the backup when Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira competed for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317.
The 29-year-old contender is optimistic about receiving a title shot later this year. His last appearance in the octagon was at UFC Qatar in late 2025, where he secured a second-round submission victory over Dan Hooker and subsequently called out Ilia Topuria. However, his prior conduct may have impacted his immediate title contention.
In recent months, Tsarukyan has garnered increased fan support through his activities outside the UFC and his media engagements. This shift suggests he may have regained favor with Dana White.
Should the main event proceed as planned on June 14 without the need for a replacement, Tsarukyan has indicated that the promotion will announce his next fight after the UFC 250 event.
English Translation
Dana White has revealed the designated backup fighter for the main event of UFC 250, scheduled for June 14. The headliner for this significant event is set to be a lightweight championship unification bout between the current champion, Ilia Topuria, and the interim champion, Justin Gaethje.
Arman Tsarukyan has been officially confirmed as the backup fighter for the lightweight title unification clash between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.
During a recent conversation with Nina-Marie Daniele, UFC President Dana White confirmed this decision, stating, “Arman is the backup for the White House fight. So if anything happens for that fight, Arman’s in there.”
Tsarukyan had expressed his desire to be a backup fighter for this title match, a role he has previously filled. Last year, he served as the backup when Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira competed for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317.
The 29-year-old contender is optimistic about receiving a title shot later this year. His last appearance in the octagon was at UFC Qatar in late 2025, where he secured a second-round submission victory over Dan Hooker and subsequently called out Ilia Topuria. However, his prior conduct may have impacted his immediate title contention.
In recent months, Tsarukyan has garnered increased fan support through his activities outside the UFC and his media engagements. This shift suggests he may have regained favor with Dana White.
Should the main event proceed as planned on June 14 without the need for a replacement, Tsarukyan has indicated that the promotion will announce his next fight after the UFC 250 event.