Arman Tsarukyan, the #2 ranked UFC lightweight contender, has been notably active in recent months, frequently appearing on podcasts and collaborating with various streamers and content creators. This past weekend, he met popular streamer IShowSpeed, resulting in a memorable interaction.
Upon linking up with IShowSpeed, Tsarukyan, also known as “Ahalkalakets,” quickly showcased his MMA skills and tested the streamer’s wrestling. The Armenian fighter effortlessly lifted the 21-year-old, leading IShowSpeed to jokingly urge him to “relax.” A clip of this lighthearted grappling session rapidly went viral.
The playful encounter between Tsarukyan and IShowSpeed sparked numerous reactions across social media. Netizens shared comments such as: “Arman is connecting with everyone,” and “Arman is ‘collecting’ streamers like Pokémon cards.” Another fan remarked, “It’s rare to see IShowSpeed asking someone to relax.” Many highlighted the dynamic, with one user noting, “Arman casually ragdolling Speed like it’s nothing, this crossover is pure chaos energy.”
Currently, the 29-year-old Tsarukyan does not have an immediate UFC fight scheduled. However, he’s been busy assisting his friend, UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, in preparations for Chimaev’s first title defense. Additionally, Tsarukyan is slated to return to the Real American Freestyle (RAF) mats later this month for a rematch against Georgio Poullas.
Arman Tsarukyan Expresses Desire to “Save” the UFC Featherweight Division
Tsarukyan has publicly stated his interest in potentially moving down to the featherweight division. His interest was reignited after he watched the UFC London main event, where he was unimpressed by Movsar Evloev’s majority decision victory over Lerone Murphy. The fighter has previously shown an inclination to challenge two-time featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. Following Evloev’s recent performance, Tsarukyan took to Threads, asking UFC fans, “is it time for me to save the featherweight division?”
Tsarukyan’s next UFC bout is expected to be announced soon, as he has confirmed that UFC executive Hunter Campbell has provided him with a date. The Armenian fighter has also previously expressed his anticipation of securing a lightweight title shot later this year.