Arman Tsarukyan won a significant fight in his career at UFC 300 by defeating former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira through a split decision. However, the talk of the town the next day was not about his victory but about an incident that occurred during his walkout to the octagon. Tsarukyan got physical with a fan, as several videos surfaced showing him initially extending his arm to shake the fan’s hand, but then suddenly turning towards the fan and appearing to punch them. This incident has sparked a debate among fans and critics alike.
At the post-fight press conference, UFC president Dana White acknowledged the incident with his usual blend of humor and bravado. White advised against grabbing fighters as they walk out, as they are hyped up and tensions can run high. He jokingly mentioned the possibility of getting sued but stated that they would deal with it. Tsarukyan himself addressed the incident later on, explaining that the fan showed aggression towards him, and his instinct was to retaliate. He asserted that no one should show disrespect to him in such a manner, and he would always retaliate in defense.
Tsarukyan expressed his hope that defeating Oliveira would lead to a rematch against Islam Makhachev, the fighter who handed him his UFC debut loss in 2019. He believes that a victory over Makhachev would solidify his status in the lightweight division. Reflecting on the incident during his walkout, Tsarukyan emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance from fans to prevent altercations. He hinted that in the future, he might opt for a more organized walkout routine, such as a choreographed dance, to avoid any potential confrontations with fans.
The incident involving Tsarukyan and the fan has brought attention to the challenges fighters face while making their way to the octagon. In the high-energy environment of a fight night, emotions can run high, and a simple gesture from a fan can be misinterpreted, leading to unexpected confrontations. It serves as a reminder for fans to respect the boundaries of fighters and for fighters to remain composed despite any provocations. The incident has sparked discussions among fans and the UFC community, with differing opinions on who was at fault and how similar situations can be avoided in the future.
Despite the controversy surrounding his walkout, Tsarukyan’s victory over Oliveira was a significant accomplishment in his career. Defeating a former lightweight champion by split decision demonstrates his skill and potential in the division. As he looks towards a potential rematch with Makhachev, Tsarukyan aims to continue his momentum and establish himself as a top contender in the lightweight division. The incident with the fan, while a notable moment, should not overshadow Tsarukyan’s achievements in the octagon and his aspirations for future success in the UFC. It serves as a lesson for both fighters and fans on the importance of mutual respect and maintaining composure in the heat of the moment.
