Former UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili has spoken out in support of Arman Tsarukyan following a chaotic brawl at the Real American Freestyle 06 (RAF 06) wrestling event. The incident occurred after Tsarukyan’s match against Georgio Poullas, where tensions escalated due to Poullas’ use of questionable tactics.
Details of the RAF 06 Altercation Between Tsarukyan and Poullas
Arman Tsarukyan, a leading UFC lightweight contender, faced Georgio Poullas in a wrestling match that featured prominently on the RAF 06 card, which was headlined by MMA stars Henry Cejudo and Urijah Faber. Throughout the bout, officials repeatedly penalized Poullas for slapping and other unfair actions on the mat, creating frustration for Tsarukyan.
After eight competitive rounds, Tsarukyan responded to Poullas’ provocations by taking him down following the buzzer and delivering a series of punches. This sparked a tumultuous brawl involving both fighters and their teams. The confrontation ended with Poullas receiving extensive medical treatment at a hospital in Tempe.
The post-match chaos drew mixed reactions from fans, with some condemning Tsarukyan’s response, while others defended his actions given the circumstances within the wrestling match.
Merab Dvalishvili Supports Tsarukyan’s Reaction in the Aftermath
During an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Merab Dvalishvili offered his perspective on the controversial incident, siding with Tsarukyan. He remarked on the dynamics that led to the brawl, explaining the provocations that Tsarukyan faced.
I think Georgio started that; he was doing too much,
Dvalishvili said.
They took points from him, and I think if they were supposed to fight, they should’ve fought instead of the wrestling match, not after. That’s just my opinion. Georgio was doing too much for sure, fighting aggressively, and we also saw how he was pushing in Arman’s face.
Dvalishvili’s defense highlights the tension that arose due to Poullas’ conduct during the match, implying that Tsarukyan’s retaliatory actions were provoked rather than gratuitous.
Previous Incidents and Prospects for Tsarukyan
This is not the first time Tsarukyan has displayed a volatile temper outside sanctioned fight time. Prior to a UFC Qatar event, he notably headbutted Dan Hooker, which caused the UFC leadership, including CEO Dana White and matchmakers, to delay Tsarukyan’s pursuit of a lightweight title shot.
Following his submission victory over Hooker, Tsarukyan is expected to face more top contenders before receiving another chance at the lightweight championship. Meanwhile, a potential rematch with Poullas remains a possibility, which could reignite one of the earliest disputes within the RAF promotion.
This unfolding rivalry and Tsarukyan’s ongoing career developments will continue drawing attention from fans in both wrestling and MMA circles, as emotions remain high around fighters’ conduct and discipline.
