Arman Tsarukyan suspended and fined after incident at UFC 300

Arman Tsarukyan, a UFC lightweight boxer, was suspended for nine months and fined $25,000 for punching a fan at UFC 300. However, he can still fight for the lightweight title later this year if he takes part in an anti-bullying campaign.

Arman Tsarukyan’s suspension and fine at UFC 300

At UFC 300, lightweight boxer Arman Tsarukyan faced disciplinary action for an altercation with fans during his exit.

As Tsarukyan made his way to the Octagon for his fight against Charles Oliveira on April 13, an incident occurred that had significant consequences for the fighter.

The Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) announced Tuesday that Tsarukyan, 27, was suspended for nine months and fined $25,000 for punching a fan who gave him the middle finger.

His punch, which was captured live on the UFC 300 broadcast and by several cell phone cameras, led to this severe disciplinary action.

Tsarukyan’s suspension reduction and title chances

Tsarukyan’s suspension ends on January 12, 2025.

However, the NSAC has offered to reduce the suspension to six months if Tsarukyan participates in an anti-bullying public service announcement approved by the commission. This means Tsarukyan can return to the Octagon as early as October 12, 2024.

Despite this setback, Tsarukyan’s recent split decision victory over Charles Oliveira has cemented his status as the next UFC lightweight title challenger.

His manager, Daniel Rubenstein, released a statement expressing Tsarukyan’s gratitude for the NSAC’s action and his willingness to cooperate on the anti-bullying PSA to potentially shorten his suspension.

“Arman appreciates the NSAC’s efforts on this matter and looks forward to working with the UFC and the NSAC to create an anti-bullying PSA that will allow him to reduce his suspension and challenge for a UFC lightweight title before the end of the year.”, said Rubenstein.

Tsarukyan’s title fight and suspension

Arman Tsarukyan of Armenia has a record of 22-3 and has won four fights in a row. The UFC designated his fight against Oliveira as a “title eliminator,” meaning he is next in line for a title shot.

He is expected to face current lightweight world champion Islam Makhachev in Abu Dhabi in late October, assuming his ban is shortened.

No charges have been filed against Tsarukyan for the punch, but the incident shows how intense and emotional these events can be for the fighters. The UFC and its regulators are strict about keeping the sport safe and fair.

Fans and the MMA community will be watching how Tsarukyan handles this situation and prepares for his potential title shot later this year.