At the Real American Freestyle (RAF) 6 event in Tempe, Arizona, UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan was involved in a wrestling match against Georgio Poullas that escalated into a violent brawl, raising concerns about his professional conduct. Tsarukyan secured the win but the post-match chaos nearly involved spectators and required intervention from officials and security.
Tensions Flare Amid Wrestling Match Between Tsarukyan and Poullas
Tsarukyan, competing in the co-main event, faced Georgio Poullas, a known content creator and former collegiate wrestler famous for online takedown challenges. From the outset, the match was marked by friction; Poullas repeatedly slapped Tsarukyan’s head, prompting retaliation. The referee was forced to pause the bout multiple times to restore order.
Scoring 2-1 in favor of Tsarukyan at the end of the first period, he extended his lead to 4-1 before Poullas managed a late takedown, attempting a gut-wrench maneuver that Tsarukyan countered with his own double-leg takedown. The final score of the match was 5-3, confirming Tsarukyan’s clear victory.
Post-Match Violence Erupts Between Fighters and Expands Outward
Immediately after the final whistle, Tsarukyan aggressively charged at Poullas, tackling him and throwing punches reminiscent of a UFC fight inside the Octagon. The confrontation escalated as coaches, athletes, security personnel, and even UFC welterweight Colby Covington rushed to intervene. Despite officials regaining control, the fight spilled beyond the mat and disturbed the venue.
Recurring Conduct Issues Raise Concerns About Tsarukyan’s Career
This incident fits into a troubling pattern for Tsarukyan. In April 2024 at UFC 300, he punched a fan during his walkout after being provoked, which led to a nine-month suspension and a $25,000 fine by the Nevada State Athletic Commission. Later, in November 2025, Tsarukyan headbutted Dan Hooker during UFC Qatar weigh-ins, fracturing Hooker’s nose the night before their scheduled fight.
UFC President Dana White has acknowledged that the headbutt played a significant role in Tsarukyan being passed over for the interim lightweight title fight at UFC 324. Though Tsarukyan’s skills are widely recognized—he holds a 10-2 UFC record and is ranked No. 2 in the lightweight division with wins over Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush—his disciplinary issues jeopardize his prospects.
Given that the recent brawl occurred outside the UFC’s jurisdiction, it remains uncertain whether RAF will take disciplinary action or if UFC executives will reconsider Tsarukyan’s timeline for a title shot due to these ongoing controversies.
Implications for Tsarukyan’s Standing in MMA and UFC Title Pursuits
Arman Tsarukyan’s behavior during and after the RAF 6 event adds pressure on his future in MMA, potentially affecting his march toward a UFC lightweight championship. His undeniable talent clashes with repeated disciplinary problems, causing frustration among fans and officials alike. The UFC is likely to weigh these incidents carefully when deciding on his involvement in high-profile fights.
🚨 Dana White confirms that Arman Tsarukyan headbutting Dan Hooker at the weigh in “played a factor” in him not getting a UFC title shot via @RobbieBarstool
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