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Arman Tsarukyan is set to compete again this weekend, but his next appearance will come outside the UFC. The lightweight contender has been booked for a submission only grappling match against Indian fitness influencer Ankit Baiyanpuria at a Hype Fighting event scheduled for August 1 at Tashir Arena in Yerevan, Armenia.
The announcement adds another chapter to Arman Tsarukyan’s busy schedule outside mixed martial arts as he continues to stay active while waiting for his long anticipated return to the UFC.
Arman Tsarukyan remains active outside the UFC
Despite being one of the top ranked lightweights in the UFC, Tsarukyan has not fought inside the Octagon since November 2025. His most recent UFC appearance saw him deliver an impressive submission victory over Dan Hooker in the main event of UFC Qatar.
That victory followed a lengthy absence after his win against former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024. While many expected Tsarukyan to receive a title opportunity soon after, delays in the lightweight division have kept him on the sidelines.
Instead of waiting for the UFC to finalize his next fight, the Armenian standout has remained remarkably active across multiple combat sports events. He has competed in grappling and freestyle wrestling contests throughout 2026, building momentum and maintaining his competitive sharpness.
Submission only showdown against Ankit Baiyanpuria
Tsarukyan’s latest assignment will see him face Indian fitness personality Ankit Baiyanpuria in a submission only contest under the Hype Fighting Announces Arman Tsarukyan vs Indian Influencer in Surprise Match Fighting banner.
Baiyanpuria has become one of India’s most recognizable fitness influencers, attracting more than 7.5 million followers on Instagram through his workout videos and fitness content. Although he is not a professional mixed martial artist, his popularity has made the matchup one of the most talked about crossover contests on the upcoming card.
This will not be Tsarukyan’s first appearance for Hype Fighting. He has previously competed in submission only matches against UFC fighters Shara Magomedov and Muhammad Mokaev, further expanding his experience in elite grappling competition.
The upcoming contest will also mark Arman Tsarukyan’s tenth competitive appearance of 2026 across different combat sports platforms.
Busy schedule continues after RAF setback
Earlier this month, Tsarukyan competed under the Real American Freestyle Wrestling promotion, where he faced former UFC interim welterweight champion Colby Covington in the inaugural RAF crossover title bout.
The contest ended in disappointment for Tsarukyan, who suffered a decision loss and recorded his first defeat under the RAF banner after previously putting together an impressive winning run.
Rather than slowing down after that setback, the 29 year old quickly accepted another challenge, demonstrating his willingness to compete regardless of the rule set.
His consistent activity has become increasingly rare among elite UFC contenders, many of whom prefer to wait for title opportunities instead of taking risks outside the promotion.
UFC title picture appears to be taking shape
While Arman Tsarukyan prepares for another grappling contest, attention remains focused on his expected return to the UFC.
Recent reports indicate that a rematch with former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira has been finalized for UFC 331 on September 19 in Los Angeles. The bout is expected to headline the event and could reportedly feature the BMF title.
If the matchup is officially confirmed, it would serve as one of the biggest lightweight fights of the year. Tsarukyan earned a victory over Oliveira at UFC 300, making a rematch a natural choice as both fighters continue pursuing championship opportunities.
The winner is widely expected to move one step closer to a shot at the undisputed UFC lightweight title, with Justin Gaethje also remaining firmly in the championship conversation.
Focus remains on staying ready
For Arman Tsarukyan remaining active appears to be a deliberate strategy rather than simply filling time between UFC appearances. Competing in grappling and wrestling events allows him to sharpen his skills without enduring the physical damage associated with full mixed martial arts bouts.
His upcoming meeting with Baiyanpuria offers another opportunity to showcase his elite grappling while maintaining visibility ahead of what could become the biggest fight of his career later this year.
If the reported bout against Oliveira is officially announced in the coming weeks, Tsarukyan’s appearance in Armenia will likely serve as the final stop before he shifts his full attention back to the UFC, where a lightweight title opportunity remains firmly within reach.
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