Arman Tsarukyan has become the most discussed lightweight in UFC despite not holding the title, thanks to his skill and bad boy persona. However, repeated incidents outside the cage have put the promotion in a difficult position regarding how to handle him. Analysts like Brendan Schaub argue that Tsarukyan's dominance makes punishment challenging.
Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 2-ranked lightweight contender with a 23-3 record, has built significant exposure through his aggressive persona and in-cage success. Yet, his off-octagon behavior has drawn scrutiny from UFC officials. UFC president Dana White stated that issues away from fighting cost Tsarukyan his standing in the division last year.
Tsarukyan's controversies include punching a fan at UFC 300, withdrawing from a title fight against Islam Makhachev with little notice, and headbutting Dan Hooker during weigh-ins at UFC Qatar. More recently, at Real American Freestyle (RAF) 6, he engaged in a post-fight scuffle with Georgio Poullas. This follows an earlier incident in December where he threw a knee at Mehdi Baydulaev during a match. Tsarukyan also competes in promotions like HYPE FC, where his short temper continues to make headlines.
Former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub discussed the UFC's dilemma on his podcast. “How do you discipline Arman Tsarukyan,” Schaub said. “Go to the 155 rankings. Who do you give him to discipline him? ... He gets the winner of Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira [at UFC 326]; he beats both of them.” He added, “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’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.”
Prior to the RAF incident, Tsarukyan appeared on The Ariel Helwani Show, revealing discussions with UFC executive Hunter Campbell. “I already talked to Hunter a couple of weeks ago, we’ve got a couple of options,” Tsarukyan said. “Like, title fights... A fight for the 155-pound title (is the most appealing option they gave me), in like September or October, after Justin (fights for the title).” He noted, “It was a good meeting... They said keep doing what you’re doing.” It remains unclear if the latest events will impact these plans.
The UFC 311 fiasco further delayed Tsarukyan's title shot, leaving the promotion to balance his marketability with his conduct.