Tsarukyan: Beauty or Belt? The Unusual Reason Behind His Title Fight

The Armenian lightweight contender jokes about his appearance as an obstacle to the UFC crown.

In the dizzying world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), where skill and determination are currency, a peculiarity emerges that has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. Arman Tsarukyan, a name that resonates strongly in the lightweight division, finds himself in an enviable position: second in the contender rankings and with a legitimate clamor for a title opportunity. However, the conversation around his future has strayed into unexpected territory, marked by humor and surprising self-criticism.

During a recent live broadcast with popular content creator Clavicular, Tsarukyan, known for his ferocity in the octagon, shared an anecdote that has gone around the sports world. In a joking tone, the Armenian fighter, also born in Georgia, slipped a theory that, if true, would add an unexpected twist to his career. The MMA star, without mincing words, suggested that his physical appearance could be the factor that is preventing him from accessing the long-awaited opportunity for the belt, currently in the hands of Ilia Topuria, who is preparing to defend it against Justin Gaethje.

“Possibly, you could have acquired more starting opportunities if you looked much better than you already do,” commented Clavicular, while both were in the back of a vehicle, in a relaxed atmosphere. Tsarukyan's response was immediate and, laughing, he added: “So now I'm going to get botox to get my shot at the title. That was the reason they didn't give me shots at the title, it's because I'm ugly.” A statement that, beyond the joke, hints at the frustration and uncertainty that sometimes surrounds pairing decisions in major sports leagues.

This is not the first time that fate has played tricks on Arman Tsarukyan on his way to the top. Back in January 2025, his first title opportunity was cut short by a back injury that sidelined him from the main event against Islam Makhachev. A setback that left the UFC at a crossroads, forcing Dana White and his team to look for a last-minute replacement. The choice fell on Renato Moicano, who, despite having a scheduled fight against Beneil Dariush, jumped into the ring to try to save the fight.

The UFC, faced with the situation, demanded that Tsarukyan earn his place again in the title fight. A request to which the Armenian, at first, showed reluctance. However, sensing that the company could overlook his inactivity, he decided to accept a fight against Dan Hooker in Qatar, held last November. A meeting that, far from being a simple procedure, ended up generating a new controversy.

During the pre-fight press conference, Tsarukyan caused an incident when he headbutted his New Zealand opponent. This act, considered unsportsmanlike, once again called into question his chances of accessing a fight for the championship. Dana White, top leader of the UFC, was quick to express his disapproval, and the company avoided involving him in subsequent matchups aimed at defining an interim monarch in the 155-pound division.

Arman Tsarukyan's future in the UFC is, today, a mystery. Meanwhile, the Armenian contender maintains his sporting activity in the discipline of wrestlingwhere he has also been involved in controversies and competes regularly. However, the absence of concrete news about his return to the most important MMA company in the world casts a shadow of doubt on his title aspirations. The question that remains in the air is whether the UFC will prioritize spectacle and controversy, or if it will finally give this talented but peculiar fighter a chance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Arman Tsarukyan?

Arman Tsarukyan is a prominent Armenian MMA fighter, currently ranked as the second contender in the UFC lightweight division.

Why did Tsarukyan joke about his appearance?

During a live broadcast, Tsarukyan joked that his physical appearance could be the reason why he has not been granted a title shot, suggesting that he would get botox to get it.

What was Tsarukyan's first missed starting opportunity?

He lost his first starting opportunity in January 2025 due to a back injury, when he was scheduled to face Islam Makhachev.

Who replaced Tsarukyan in his title fight?

Renato Moicano replaced Tsarukyan in the title fight against Islam Makhachev.

Who did Tsarukyan fight after his injury?

Following his injury, Tsarukyan fought Dan Hooker in Qatar in November.

What incident occurred during the press conference with Dan Hooker?

Tsarukyan headbutted Dan Hooker during the press conference prior to their fight.

How did the UFC react to the headbutt incident?

Dana White disowned Tsarukyan's behavior, and the UFC avoided involving him in interim title matchups.

What is the current status of Tsarukyan's UFC career?

His future in the UFC is uncertain, and there is no news about his next fight in the company.