Arman Tsarukyan stayed active on Saturday with another high-level appearance on the wrestling mats. His standing in the UFC lightweight division remains unclear. He continues competing outside the organization to build momentum. These appearances keep his name relevant among top contenders.
Last December, Tsarukyan met UFC fighter Shara Magomedov in a grappling match. Both fighters agreed to a submission-only rule set. Neither competitor secured a finish during the contest. Officials ruled the match a draw after regulation. Since beating Dan Hooker, Tsarukyan has now competed twice outside the UFC. He returned again at RAF05 to face Lance Palmer.
Wrestling clinic leaves little doubt
Tsarukyan controlled the contest from the opening exchange. He shut down every offensive attempt from Lance Palmer. Palmer entered the match as a four-time All-American wrestler. Tsarukyan dictated pace, position, and pressure throughout the bout. Judges awarded him a flawless 10-0 victory.
Former UFC fighter and RAF commentator Chael Sonnen reacted with disbelief. He highlighted Tsarukyan’s technical control and composure. The performance strengthened Tsarukyan’s case among elite lightweights. Many fans now believe he deserves a title shot. UFC leadership still appears cautious about moving him forward.
Tsarukyan sets his sights on Michael Chandler
Tsarukyan showed little interest in another contender bout. He instead called out fellow lightweight Michael Chandler. Tsarukyan challenged Chandler to a wrestling match outside the Octagon. He shared his message shortly after the dominant win.
Tsarukyan accused Chandler of avoiding certain opponents in the UFC. He invited Chandler to test himself in a wrestling setting. Tsarukyan referenced Chandler’s wrestling background as motivation. He said Chandler would have a chance there. He added that Chandler would have no chance in an MMA fight.
Chandler responds without hesitation
Michael Chandler remains linked to a potential fight with Conor McGregor. The UFC targets a major White House event for June 14. That timeline leaves room for another appearance. Chandler attended RAF05 and heard the comments firsthand.
Chandler responded immediately during a post-event interview. He praised Tsarukyan for staying active outside the UFC. He then dismissed the challenge with confidence. Chandler said he would dominate Tsarukyan in a wrestling match. He credited Tsarukyan’s performance but criticized Palmer’s effort. Chandler ended by pointing toward a major opportunity later this summer.
