Ilia Topuria, the current UFC lightweight champion, is known for his formidable power, and his sparring partners are bearing the brunt of it during his intense training camps. Ahead of his highly anticipated clash with Justin Gaethje on June 14 at UFC Freedom 250, Topuria is reportedly pushing his training to the absolute limit.
Recent footage shared from Topuria’s training sessions has revealed the sheer intensity of sparring with the 29-year-old fighter. In a YouTube video uploaded to his channel, Topuria’s training partners openly discussed the punishing nature of their sessions. One partner candidly admitted the physical toll, stating, “Sparring with Ilia is crazy. We had the opportunity to feel the power of his fist. My liver is fu*ked up after the session. It’s an amazing experience, and I think it will level up our skills to the maximum.”
These close encounters with Topuria’s power have led some of his sparring partners to confidently predict a swift victory for “El Matador” against Justin Gaethje. They believe Topuria’s relentless pressure will be too much for the interim champion, with one stating, “All the time I felt the pressure from Ilia, I think he finishes [Gaethje] in the first round.”
Arman Tsarukyan Expresses Frustration as Backup Fighter
Meanwhile, top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has been named the official backup fighter for the UFC Freedom 250 main event. This means Tsarukyan must make weight and remain ready to step in if any issues arise with the planned fight between Topuria and Gaethje. While this position offers a potential future title shot, Tsarukyan voiced his dissatisfaction with the role.
Speaking on the JAXXON Podcast, Tsarukyan acknowledged the importance of being prepared but expressed his disdain for constantly being in the backup position. “I’m excited that if something happens, they’ll call me. I’m the first guy who is going to jump in, and I’m getting ready for that. I’m already on my diet, but it always sucks to be backup, but now I have to do this,” he said, highlighting the mental and physical commitment required for a role that may not even lead to a fight.
