UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan traded the Octagon for the Los Angeles City Council chamber on April 24, where he was crowned ‘Person of the Year’ amidst the city’s Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day ceremony. In a move that underscores his rising profile beyond mixed martial arts, Tsarukyan received a certificate of excellence from councilmember Adrin Nazarian, highlighting his dual role as a combat athlete and community ambassador.
Honouring heritage at City Hall
Born into an Armenian family in Georgia and raised in Russia, Tsarukyan has embraced his roots throughout his UFC journey. Los Angeles, home to one of the largest Armenian diasporas outside Armenia, provided a fitting backdrop for the accolade. Addressing the chamber, Tsarukyan spoke of LA as “a source of inspiration, a place where dreams come true and new goals are born”, emphasising the award’s personal significance.
Beyond the UFC Octagon
Despite being one of the promotion’s hottest prospects, Tsarukyan has spent recent months away from the UFC Octagon, keeping active in Real American Freestyle wrestling. He remains unbeaten at 3-0 after a headline-grabbing victory over former bantamweight kingpin Urijah Faber, a contest marked by Tsarukyan’s controversial launch of his opponent onto concrete. This blend of high-level grappling and provocative showmanship continues to fuel debate among fight fans.
Eyeing the lightweight title shot
With a five-fight layoff from the UFC behind him, Tsarukyan confirmed in March that he has since held “positive conversations” with matchmakers and expects to return before the end of 2026. Positioned just outside the title picture, the 29-year-old contender remains determined to secure a championship opportunity against the likes of Islam Makhachev or Alexander Volkanovski in his next Octagon outing.
As Tsarukyan basks in his civic recognition, the wider MMA world will be watching closely to see if his next UFC appearance lives up to the promise that earned him this milestone honour.
FAQ
When was Arman Tsarukyan awarded Person of the Year?
He received the honour on April 24, 2026, during the Los Angeles City Council’s Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day event.
Why did Tsarukyan receive this award?
The certificate recognised his sporting achievements in the UFC and his positive impact on the Armenian community in Los Angeles.
Who did Tsarukyan last face in wrestling?
He last battled Urijah Faber in Real American Freestyle, extending his wrestling record to 3-0 with a dramatic finish.
When will Tsarukyan return to the UFC?
While no fight date is confirmed, Tsarukyan has indicated that a return to the Octagon is expected before the end of 2026 after productive talks with UFC officials.