Arman Tsarukyan is set to debut at RAF 5 against Lance Palmer on January 10 in Sunrise, Florida, following a busy 2025 with various MMA and grappling victories, while his next UFC fight remains unbooked.
Arman Tsarukyan’s journey continues outside the octagon. Intriguing, right?
On Monday, Real American Freestyle dropped some big news. Tsarukyan, a top UFC lightweight contender, is set to face former PFL standout Lance Palmer. Mark your calendars for Jan. 10 at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Fla.
This will be Tsarukyan’s first appearance at RAF. Exciting debut, isn’t it?
In 2025, Tsarukyan kept himself busy. An injury had sidelined him from a fight with Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 311 in January. But he bounced back at UFC Qatar in November, swiftly defeating Dan Hooker. Outside MMA, he’s been active, waiting for the 155-pound contender picture to clear up.
Just last Wednesday, he snagged a title in the ACCBJJ promotion. Not to mention, he scored grappling wins over former UFC lightweight champ Benson Henderson, Patricky Pitbull, and Makkasharip Zaynukov in 2025. His next UFC fight isn’t booked yet, but he’s already signed up for his first competitive bout of 2026.
Now, let’s talk about Palmer. A two-time PFL tournament winner at 145 pounds, he’s also a former WSOF featherweight champ. Did you know he’s a four-time NCAA Division-I All-American wrestler from Ohio State? He competed at RAF’s inaugural event in August, losing a decision to Austin Gomez.
RAF 5 is packed with excitement. It also features a highly anticipated wrestling matchup between Yoel Romero and Bo Nickal, plus Colby Covington vs. Luke Rockhold. Can’t wait!