Arman Tsarukyan continued his impressive run of side projects on Saturday with another strong wrestling appearance. His position in the UFC lightweight division remains uncertain, yet he stays consistently active. Tsarukyan keeps competing outside the leading MMA promotion to sharpen his skills. He uses these bouts to maintain momentum and public attention.
Last December, Tsarukyan faced fellow UFC fighter Shara Magomedov in a grappling contest. Both fighters agreed on a submission-based rule set. Neither athlete secured a submission during the match. Officials declared the bout a draw after the final exchange. Since his victory over Dan Hooker, Tsarukyan has competed twice outside the UFC. He returned to the wrestling mats at RAF05 to face Lance Palmer.
A dominant performance shocks observers
Tsarukyan controlled the match from the opening moments with confident technique. He neutralized Lance Palmer’s offense throughout the contest. Palmer entered as a four-time All-American wrestler with elite credentials. Tsarukyan allowed no momentum shifts and dictated every exchange. Judges awarded him a dominant 10-0 victory.
Former UFC fighter and RAF commentator Chael Sonnen reacted with visible surprise. Sonnen praised Tsarukyan’s control and composure on the mat. The performance strengthened Tsarukyan’s growing reputation as an elite grappler. Many fans now view him as a clear title contender. UFC leadership, however, still appears hesitant to fully commit.
Tsarukyan targets Michael Chandler
Despite his momentum, Tsarukyan shows little interest in another contender fight. He instead shifted focus toward fellow lightweight Michael Chandler. Tsarukyan challenged Chandler to a wrestling match outside the UFC cage. He shared his thoughts immediately after the win.
Tsarukyan claimed Chandler avoids certain opponents inside the UFC. He suggested Chandler prove himself in a pure wrestling environment. Tsarukyan pointed to Chandler’s wrestling background as motivation. He said Chandler would at least have a chance there. Tsarukyan added that Chandler would have no chance inside the Octagon.
Michael Chandler fires back immediately
Michael Chandler now appears closer than ever to a fight with Conor McGregor. Reports link that bout to a major UFC White House event. The promotion targets June 14 for the showcase. Chandler still has time to compete before that date.
Chandler attended RAF05 in person and responded quickly. He spoke during an interview shortly after Tsarukyan’s comments. Chandler praised Tsarukyan for staying active outside the UFC. He then confidently dismissed the challenge.
Chandler said he would dominate Tsarukyan in a wrestling match. He acknowledged Tsarukyan’s strong showing against Palmer. Chandler also criticized Palmer’s performance that night. He finished by saying his focus remains on a major summer opportunity.
