Israel Adesanya: Arman Tsarukyan needs less streaming time

Israel Adesanya thinks Arman Tsarukyan is spending too much time with internet personalities and not enough in the gym.

The former middleweight champion told "The Mightycast," per Sherdog, that Tsarukyan's regular appearances with streamers like Sneako, N3on, and Nina Marie-Daniele might be costing him the focus needed to reach the top of the lightweight division. "To be at the top-top of the game, you can't be hanging out with Sneako and N3on on the regular," Adesanya said. "You gotta be in the gym."

Tsarukyan's title picture clouded by streaming career

Tsarukyan, who holds a 23-3 record, pulled out of a title challenge against Islam Makhachev last year and beat Dan Hooker in November but still has not secured another shot. Adesanya acknowledged that Tsarukyan's social media presence has sent his popularity through the roof, but suggested the Armenian-born contender risks being passed over again if he does not prioritize training.

Justin Gaethje upset Ilia Topuria to claim the lightweight title last weekend, and while Tsarukyan is widely considered the most deserving challenger, the return of Conor McGregor — who faces Max Holloway at UFC 329 next month — could shuffle the order. Adesanya noted that a Gaethje-McGregor matchup "would feed families, it would feed countries," pointing to the commercial pressure that might keep Tsarukyan waiting.

Tsarukyan has not publicly responded to Adesanya's advice. The UFC has not announced a next challenger for Gaethje.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Israel Adesanya advises Arman Tsarukyan to limit hanging out with influencers