Arman Tsarukyan Admits Mauricio Ruffy Fight Is a Huge Risk

UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan opened up about the massive stakes of his upcoming bout during a candid interview with Daniel Cormier on the DC Interview show. Speaking just two days before his highly anticipated clash against knockout artist Mauricio Ruffy, Tsarukyan admitted he would have preferred to wait strictly for a title shot. However, he knew staying idle was not an option. "If I don't fight, someone else might come and take my number one contender place," Tsarukyan explained.

Tsarukyan is treating this bout as a platform to send a clear message to the division. He plans to utilize his elite grappling to exhaust Ruffy before finding a finish, though he expects a highly competitive battle early on. "If I go out there and finish Ruffy, there is no doubt I am fighting for the title!" Tsarukyan declared, adding that he is facing Justin Gaethje next for the undisputed belt. During the interview, Tsarukyan also expressed his surprise at how easily Gaethje defeated former champion Ilia Topuria.

Beyond the Octagon, Tsarukyan addressed his recent foray into online streaming, clarifying that it is purely an off-season hobby to gain followers and grow his brand. Once training camp begins, his focus narrows entirely. "In the training camp, there is only one focus, and that is MMA. My biggest passion and goal is MMA," he stated, cementing his readiness for Saturday night.