Former champion claims Tsarukyan is making history by 'dodging' UFC boycott.

Arman Tsarukyan He is ranked first in the lightweight rankings. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Sean O'Malley believe that Arman Tsarukyan He is building something historic, even in a scenario he considers unfavorable within the UFC. Currently ranked number one in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg), the Armenian fighter has yet to receive a title shot, despite a consistent run of performances. Faced with this, the fighter has chosen to circumvent the situation by competing in grappling events outside the organization, a strategy seen by 'Sugar' as extremely intelligent.

In a video posted on his YouTube channel, O'Malley highlighted the unprecedented nature of Tsarukyan's career, pointing out that the athlete is becoming a true legend by expanding his popularity even while competing outside of the UFC.

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“Arman is becoming a legend. We’ve never seen anything like it before, someone in the UFC growing up to become a superstar competing outside of the UFC,” he said. Sean O'malley

Arman Tsarukyan has fifth fight in 2026

Forgotten in the UFC, Arman Tsarukyan It continues to be a hot topic in combat sports. After win After his wrestling appearance for RAF last Saturday (28), the Armenian already has a new commitment scheduled: he faces Dillon Danis on April 8th, in São Paulo, at Hype FC, in a grappling duel with a belt at stake.

This will be Tsarukyan's fifth fight in 2026, a period in which the athlete remains active outside of the UFC while awaiting a decision about his future in the organization. Undefeated this season, the Armenian has victories over Lance Palmer, Georgio Poullas (twice) and... Muhammad Mokayev, consolidating a good recent phase.

Arman Tsarukyan forgotten by UFC

Arman Tsarukyan attack Ilia Topuria once again. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

PUBLICITY:

Even though she holds the top position in the lightweight rankings (up to 70,3 kg), Arman Tsarukyan He has not yet had the opportunity to compete for the UFC belt. When he was finally scheduled to fight for the title at UFC 311The Armenian fighter ended up injuring his back the day before the fight and had to be removed from the card, being replaced by... Renato Moicano.

As if that weren't enough, Tsarukyan was subsequently placed only as a reserve in the fight between Charles of the Bronx e Ilia Topuria, valid for the vacant belt in UFC 317Already in the running for the interim lightweight title in UFC 324The athlete wasn't even considered by the organization, which opted for... Paddy Pimblett e Justin gaethje.

After watching the American defeat the Briton and win the interim belt, Arman Tsarukyan He had once again witnessed a lightweight title fight without his name involved. Because... Justin gaethje e Ilia Topuria They are lined up for a showdown. unification of titles at UFC Casa Branca.