Tsarukyan Eyes UFC Title Dominance and Higher Pay

Arman Tsarukyan, a top contender in the UFC lightweight division, recently outlined ambitious plans to become a dominant champion while addressing concerns about fighter pay and making a bold claim that he could defeat retired legend Khabib Nurmagomedov in a hypothetical matchup.

The 27-year-old Armenian fighter, who has won five of his last six UFC bouts including victories over Dan Hooker and former champion Charles Oliveira, spoke out during appearances on livestreams hosted by boxer Ryan Garcia and influencer Adin Ross. Tsarukyan suggested that UFC officials worry he might leave the promotion after winning the title, citing his independent streak as a potential retention risk similar to Francis Ngannou's departure. However, he emphasized his commitment to the organization that helped build his career. "They’re worried that I’m going to get the title and leave the UFC," Tsarukyan said. "But where am I going to leave if I become champion? I want to be a champion and break records in our lightweight division and defend the title as much as possible. Islam did 4, I want to do 5 or 6."

Tsarukyan's path to contention hit a snag in early 2024 when he withdrew from a scheduled...