Arman Tsarukyan reveals game plan for Ruffy fight and names star-studded corner team
- Author: Vahe Hakobyan
- Sportaran
Armenian UFC fighter Arman Tsarukyan has spoken about his preparations for his upcoming bout against Brazil’s Mauricio Ruffy, which will take place on September 19 at UFC 331 in Los Angeles. Tsarukyan named the people who will be in his corner, revealed his tactical approach and confirmed that a victory should earn him a shot at the UFC title.
One of Tsarukyan’s cornermen will be legendary Armenian-born kickboxer Giorgio (Gevorg) Petrosyan. He will be joined in Arman’s corner by Khamzat Chimaev and coach Marcos “Parrumpa” DaMatta. Roman Kalantaryan, meanwhile, will not be part of Tsarukyan’s corner for this fight.
Speaking about his upcoming opponent, Tsarukyan stressed that he has no intention of underestimating Ruffy. According to Arman, the Brazilian’s main strengths are his striking, unconventional combinations and significant punching power.
That is why Tsarukyan plans to make use of his advantage in wrestling. The Armenian fighter noted that Ruffy has a strong sense of distance and timing, moves well and is capable of throwing unpredictable strikes from different angles. Tsarukyan’s plan, therefore, is to first force the Brazilian into wrestling exchanges before becoming more active in striking exchanges.
The bout is particularly important because of its potential impact on the UFC lightweight title picture. Tsarukyan said UFC representatives have already discussed his future with him and that, if he defeats Ruffy, he expects to fight for the championship belt in early 2027.
At the same time, Arman stressed that he is currently fully focused on his upcoming opponent and does not want to look too far ahead.
According to the UFC’s official website, Tsarukyan vs. Ruffy will be the five-round co-main event of UFC 331. Arman is ranked No. 2 in the lightweight division, while Ruffy is ranked seventh. Tsarukyan enters the bout on a five-fight winning streak, while the Brazilian knocked out Michael Chandler in his most recent appearance.
UFC 331 will take place on September 19 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The main event will feature a flyweight championship rematch between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja.