Pargev Khachatryan became the UNF Rising Star champion in the Flyweight category, winning against Zain Palacio with a choke hold in the first round at the UNF 23 tournament held on March 1 in Commerce, California.
Khachatryan, who is 23 years old, is a fundamental wrestler and holds a blue belt in jiu-jitsu. In the UNF, he competed in 6 bouts under semi-professional MMA rules, securing 4 early stoppage wins (2 by knockout and 2 by submission) and 2 victories by judges’ decision.
After capturing the championship title, Pargev Khachatryan announced his intention to debut in professional MMA – specifically, directly in the UFC. He is demanding a contract from Dana White, reflecting his high ambitions and desire to compete on the world stage in MMA.
“The Flyweight division be ready. I’m going pro. UFC, Dana White, are you ready, guys? Give me that contract,” said Pargev Khachatryan after his victory.
The video can be watched HERE.
The UNF league (UpNext Fighting) has already established itself as a launching pad for talented fighters. Among those who have successfully transitioned to the UFC are:
- Ernie Juarez (8-2) – entered Contender Series;
- Cody Gibson (21-10) – a TUF participant, later competing in the UFC with a record of 2 wins and 2 losses;
- Chris Padilla (15-6) – entered the UFC directly and secured 2 wins;
- Sean Sharaf (4-1) – debuted directly in the UFC despite 1 loss.