Arman Tsarukyan's Upcoming Opponent Revealed

UFC lightweight rankings leader Arman Tsarukyan, representing both Russia and Armenia, has decided to temporarily swap the octagon for the wrestling mat. On January 10, 2026, in Sunrise, Florida, he will compete in a freestyle wrestling match against experienced American athlete Lance Palmer as part of the Real American Freestyle 5 tournament. This was reported by Armsport.am.

For the 29-year-old Tsarukyan, this presents a great opportunity to test his wrestling skills against a high-level opponent ahead of a possible title fight in mixed martial arts. Arman boasts 23 professional victories, many of which he has secured through dominant wrestling and controlling performances in his bouts.

Palmer, the 38-year-old veteran and Tsarukyan's opponent, has an impressive wrestling background. He is a four-time All-American award winner in NCAA Division I and a two-time champion in the PFL league’s featherweight division. In the MMA world, the American has earned a reputation as one of the most dangerous grapplers, with a record of 23 victories.

The RAF 5 tournament promises to be a significant event in the wrestling world, with stars from mixed martial arts, including Colby Covington and Luke Rockhold, also set to take the mat that evening.