Arman Tsarukyan has once again drawn attention for his behavior following his recent match at RAF 6 in Arizona, raising questions about how the UFC will handle his discipline. After narrowly defeating Georgio Poullas by a 5-3 decision in a freestyle wrestling bout, Tsarukyan sparked an altercation by throwing punches immediately after the match concluded.
Despite being a top lightweight contender, Tsarukyan’s inconsistent conduct has kept him from securing a title fight. Earlier in April 2024, during the walkout for his UFC 300 bout against Charles Oliveira, Tsarukyan struck a fan in the crowd, resulting in a $24,000 fine and a nine-month suspension. His disciplinary record also includes withdrawing from a title fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 just one day before the event and headbutting Dan Hooker in a staredown before their UFC Qatar match last November, nearly injuring Hooker.
Tsarukyan’s Performance and UFC’s Dilemma
In the Octagon, Tsarukyan has proven himself with a five-fight winning streak dominating notable fighters such as Charles Oliveira, Dan Hooker, and Beneil Dariush. Boasting a professional record of 23 wins and 3 losses, he is widely regarded as a formidable force in the 155-pound division.
Brendan Schaub addressed the situation on his YouTube channel, questioning the UFC’s options for disciplining Tsarukyan given his success and rising status. Schaub stated,
“How do you discipline Arman Tsarukyan? Go to the 155 [pound] rankings. Who do you give him to discipline him? What are you gonna do? He gets the winner of Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira; he beats both of them… The only guy who has a shot to beat him is the champion, Ilia Topuria. Outside of that, he mops the floor with everybody. The UFC is in a bit of a pickle here.”
He further added,
“He’s built his value. He’s built his exposure. That’s exactly what the UFC wants from guys… How do you discipline this guy? He’s too good.”
Tsarukyan Appeals Directly to UFC Leadership
Facing criticism for his past actions, Tsarukyan reached out to UFC president Dana White and the organization’s leadership in January, seeking forgiveness and promising improved conduct. Speaking with Daniel Cormier, he expressed his commitment to change and requested a title opportunity, stating:
“Dana and Hunter [Campbell], forgive me. Give me a title fight. I’ll be a good boy. I’m a good boy. I’m not going to hit anybody anymore.”
Implications for Tsarukyan’s Future in the UFC
Arman Tsarukyan’s blend of elite skill and volatile behavior presents a complex challenge for the UFC. While his ability makes him a key contender in the lightweight division, his disciplinary record raises concerns about professionalism and safety that the promotion must address. How the UFC navigates this balance could impact title bout matchmaking and the enforcement of conduct standards moving forward.
Oooooh noooooo!!! After @ArmanUfc drama at RAF he's in for a world of trouble with the UFC 😂 pic.twitter.com/45nriLI9Pv
— Brendan Schaub (@BrendanSchaub) March 3, 2026
https://twitter.com/Home_of_Fight/status/2015979053606392079
