Arman Tsarukyan is an Armenian professional mixed martial artist, submission grappler, and freestyle wrestler competing in the lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Fighting out of Yerevan, Armenia and training with American Top Team, Tsarukyan is known for his strong wrestling base, technical striking, and well-rounded grappling ability. Competing primarily at 155 lb (70 kg) with an orthodox stance, he has become one of the leading lightweight contenders of his generation.
Tsarukyan began his professional MMA career in 2015, quickly gaining attention for his aggressive wrestling style and finishing ability. He made his UFC debut in April 2019 against Islam Makhachev, delivering a highly competitive performance that earned widespread praise despite a decision loss.
Over the following years, Tsarukyan established himself as a rising lightweight contender with victories over fighters such as Beneil Dariush, Joaquim Silva, and Charles Oliveira. His knockout win over Dariush in December 2023 and split-decision victory over Oliveira at UFC 300 (2024) elevated him into the top tier of the division.
In November 2025, Tsarukyan defeated Dan Hooker by arm-triangle choke submission in the second round at a UFC Fight Night event, further strengthening his title credentials.
As of early 2026, he is ranked #2 in the UFC lightweight rankings and has also appeared in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, reflecting his status as one of the organization’s top fighters.
Beyond mixed martial arts, Tsarukyan has also competed in submission grappling competitions, recording several victories in professional grappling events and earning titles in tournaments such as ACBJJ competitions.
He holds the title Master of Sport in freestyle wrestling and MMA, reflecting his strong amateur wrestling background and grappling pedigree, which heavily influence his fighting style.
Tsarukyan’s approach blends high-level wrestling, pressure striking, and positional grappling control. His ability to secure takedowns and maintain dominant ground positions makes him particularly dangerous against strikers, while his improving stand-up game allows him to compete effectively in all phases of combat.
His well-rounded skill set and finishing instincts have made him a frequent bonus winner in the UFC, including several Performance of the Night awards for standout victories.
Arman Tsarukyan is a highly ranked Armenian lightweight mixed martial artist whose wrestling foundation, improving striking, and finishing ability have established him as one of the most dangerous contenders in the UFC. With victories over elite opponents and a steadily rising reputation, Tsarukyan continues to position himself as a leading challenger for the lightweight championship in modern mixed martial arts.
Armenia
