Dramatic illustration of fighters Arman Tsarukyan and Georgio Poullas confronting each other amid RAF wrestling rematch drama.
Dramatic illustration of fighters Arman Tsarukyan and Georgio Poullas confronting each other amid RAF wrestling rematch drama.
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Poullas pulls out of grappling rematch with Tsarukyan, pushes for RAF wrestling sequel

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Georgio Poullas has withdrawn from a planned submission-only grappling rematch against UFC lightweight Arman Tsarukyan at Hype FC, favoring a wrestling rematch under the RAF banner instead. The shift follows their contentious wrestling bout and post-match brawl at RAF 6, with RAF executives backing a return to their promotion to settle the score.

Following Arman Tsarukyan's points victory over social media personality Georgio Poullas at RAF 6 on February 28, 2026, in Tempe, Arizona—which ended in a chaotic brawl initiated by Tsarukyan punching Poullas—plans for a submission-only grappling rematch at Hype FC in Rio de Janeiro on March 11 fell through. Poullas announced his withdrawal, stating no contract had been signed, and expressed preference for a wrestling rematch at an upcoming RAF event, such as RAF 07 in Tampa or RAF 08 in Philadelphia.

Poullas, who wore a neck brace after the incident, is also pursuing a call with UFC CEO Dana White to discuss a potential MMA fight in the Octagon. "We’re currently pending on trying to get a phone call [with Dana] to see if we can make that happen," he said.

RAF co-founders Chad Bronstein and Izzy Martinez advocated for the rematch in their promotion. Bronstein noted, “RAF06 created one of the biggest moments in combat sports this year... And that stage is RAF.” Martinez added, “There’s unfinished business there, and there’s no better place to settle it than on a Real American Freestyle mat.” No date or location has been confirmed.

Meanwhile, Tsarukyan has held positive discussions with UFC executive Hunter Campbell about future bouts, potentially including a lightweight title fight in September or October. As of early March 2026, RAF has not announced punishments related to the RAF 6 brawl.

What people are saying

Discussions on X focus on Georgio Poullas withdrawing from the submission grappling rematch with Arman Tsarukyan at Hype FC, opting for a wrestling sequel under RAF, with executives supportive. Reactions include neutral reports from MMA outlets, high-engagement shares of Poullas criticizing Tsarukyan's temper as hindering his UFC title shot, and opinions that the pullout prevents potential brawl escalation.

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Realistic illustration of Arman Tsarukyan and Georgio Poullas in intense wrestling rematch standoff at RAF 07 event in Tampa.
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