Tsarukyan Takes Grappling Match Against Fitness Influencer

Arman Tsarukyan will compete this weekend for the first time in 2026, though not inside the cage.

The top-ranked UFC lightweight contender is set to grapple with Indian fitness influencer Ankit Baiyanpuria in a submission-only match at Hype Fighting in Yerevan, Armenia, on Aug. 1, according to Sherdog. Baiyanpuria has built a significant online following through workout videos and traditional training content but carries no notable professional grappling credentials.

Tsarukyan's Activity Outside the UFC

Tsarukyan has not fought in MMA since submitting Dan Hooker last November. That finish marked his return after a lengthy layoff following a decision win over former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024. While his next Octagon date remains unannounced, the Armenian has stayed busy on the grappling circuit.

He has competed eight times under the Real American Freestyle banner, compiling a 7-1 record. His lone defeat came earlier this month when he dropped a points decision to Colby Covington.

Hype Fighting announced the match on Instagram, confirming the submission-only ruleset for the Aug. 1 event in Armenia.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Arman Tsarukyan’s next fight is a wild crossover match in Armenia