UFC lightweight division’s No. 1 contender Arman Tsarukyan will compete at Karate Combat 54 on May 2 in Dubai, facing Makkaharip Zaynukov in a grappling match. The news was reported by renowned journalist Ariel Helwani.
Makkaharip Zaynukov (16–4) is a teammate of Islam Makhachev. He last fought in the PFL and previously competed in UAE Warriors, where he notably defeated Armenian fighter Sargis Vardanyan.
It’s worth noting that UFC fighters are allowed to participate only in grappling tournaments outside the UFC, as such competitions are considered less risky in terms of injury. Organizations like Karate Combat take advantage of this opportunity, regularly hosting grappling matches featuring UFC stars as part of their events.
Currently, Arman Tsarukyan is in Yerevan, taking part in various events and conducting master classes for local athletes.