In the world of mixed martial arts, Arman Tsarukyan is a name that demands attention. This Armenian fighter, a top lightweight contender in the UFC, is not one to rest on his laurels. With a return to the Octagon scheduled for UFC 331, Tsarukyan is already planning his next moves, and they extend far beyond the confines of the UFC.
The Side Quest
Since his last UFC fight, Tsarukyan has been on a quest to improve and diversify his skills. He's taken on a variety of challenges, competing in 12 matches across submission grappling and wrestling. This side quest has not only kept him active but has also served as a means to enhance his MMA game.
Grappling and Wrestling Excellence
Tsarukyan's grappling prowess has been on full display, as he choked out Muhammad Mokaev and submitted Mehdi Baydulaev and Ankit Baiyanpuria. But it's not just in submission grappling where he's made his mark. The majority of his appearances have been on the wrestling mats, where he's established himself as a top star in Real American Freestyle. Victories over the likes of Tony Ferguson, Georgio Poullas, and Urijah Faber showcase his dominance in this discipline.
A Setback and a New Focus
However, a recent loss to Colby Covington served as a reminder that no fighter is invincible. This setback, his only one in 12 matches outside the UFC, has only fueled Tsarukyan's desire to improve. And improve he will, as he sets his sights on a new challenge: boxing.
Boxing Ambitions
Tsarukyan is calling on Dana White, the UFC's president, to grant him a debut in Zuffa Boxing. He believes that his improved grappling skills and wrestling prowess will translate well into the ring. "Now it's time to work on my boxing," Tsarukyan says. "Maybe after this fight, Dana will let me box so I can improve my boxing."
A Potential Rivalry Turned Boxing Match
Tsarukyan's boxing ambitions don't stop there. He's suggested a potential bout with his former UFC lightweight rival, Islam Makhachev. This idea stems from Makhachev's recent talks with Turki Alalshikh about boxing. Tsarukyan sees an opportunity for a rematch, but this time in the boxing ring. "Me versus Islam. It didn't happen the second time (in MMA), so maybe in boxing it can happen," he proposes.
A Fighter's Evolution
Arman Tsarukyan's journey is a testament to a fighter's evolution. He's not content with resting on his UFC success; instead, he's using his time wisely to improve and explore new disciplines. This ambitious approach to his career is a breath of fresh air in the world of MMA. It's an exciting prospect to see how Tsarukyan's boxing ambitions unfold and whether he can add another dimension to his already impressive skill set.
