Eddie Alvarez has an interesting take on who could give UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje more problems.
While Gaethje (28-5 MMA, 11-5 UFC) takes a break in 2026 after an upset win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Raffi will square off in a potential No. 1 contender fight at UFC 331 on Sept. 19 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
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While Tsarukyan (23-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC) is more well-rounded and has a much better resume than Raffi (14-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC), Alvarez believes Roffi is a tougher challenge for the champion.
“I actually really like Justin’s chances against Armand,” Alvarez told MMA Junkie. “I think this style is against Armand, it’s a simpler style. I think this is an easier style for Justin than against Raffi. I think if Armand and Raffi fight, I think Armand will probably win.
Former UFC lightweight champion Alvarez explained why he believes Raffi is the bigger threat to Gaethje.
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“Raffi has a longer, cleaner box, he keeps his distance very well and doesn’t tip over,” Alvarez said. “He hits pretty hard. I think he’s Justin’s worst opponent, but I don’t think Raffi can beat Armand. I think this style of fighting is not that good for him.”
Tsarukyan has fought only once in the last two-plus years, a quick submission of Dan Hooker in the UFC Fight Night 265 headliner last November. However, he remained very active, participating in numerous wrestling and grappling competitions.
“Arman hasn’t been in the cage that much, so we’ll see if that makes a difference, but I haven’t seen him unprepared,” Alvarez said. “I never looked at him during a performance and thought, ‘This guy looks like he wasn’t ready for this.’ He always seems to be ready.”
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Ex-UFC champion says Justin Gaethje has an “easier time” against Arman Tsarukyan compared to Mauricio Raffi