Arman Tsarukyan is the backup fighter for the Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje main event at UFC Freedom 250.
Dana White confirmed Tsarukyan is ready for either Topuria or Gaethje, should anything happen to prevent them from fighting.
The Topuria vs Gaethje fight will be for Topuria’s lightweight title, and is scheduled for June 14th on the South Lawn of the White House.
Tsarukyan’s Impressive Run and Past Actions
White stated that Tsarukyan’s recent run is impressive. He added that Tsarukyan has made people want to see him fight.
Tsarukyan last fought in November 2025, where he dominated Dan Hooker and won via second-round submission in Qatar. He also picked up Performance of the Night.
However, White was frustrated by Tsarukyan’s actions in the build-up to the Hooker fight. Tsarukyan headbutted Hooker during the ceremonial weigh-ins, with Hooker claiming it broke his nose. White later said that Tsarukyan’s actions cost him an immediate title shot.
Other Activities Outside the UFC
Since the Hooker fight, Tsarukyan has been involved in other combat sports events. He choked Muhammad Mokaev unconscious during a grappling match in March. Tsarukyan also took on UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber in a freestyle wrestling match.
Faber called Tsarukyan a ‘spoiled child’ for his conduct during their match. Tsarukyan executed an unsafe takedown that took both athletes off the stage and onto the concrete floor.
UFC Freedom 250 Card Details
- The event is taking place on President Donald Trump’s birthday.
- 4,300 audience members are expected to attend.
- Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane will fight for the interim heavyweight title.
Donald Trump claimed the event will be the “greatest show on earth” when it takes place at the White House next month.