A video of the interaction circulated widely on social media. “Really, That’s how you’re gonna talk in front of children?” Helwani told one of the individuals. One supporter fired back, “Children are being torn to pieces in Palestine.” Another pushed further, telling Helwani directly: “We know your stance… you can use your platform to help people. There’s a genocide going on.” Helwani’s only response was to point out that they were swearing in front of his kids.

Ariel Helwani Has A Documented Stance on Israel

The confrontation didn’t come out of nowhere. Helwani has been openly vocal about his position since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. In posts on X, he described his heart as “broken” by events in the region while also calling Israel “a special place for people of all faiths.” Born in Montreal to Mizrahi Jewish parents with roots in Egypt and Lebanon, he has previously referred to Israel as his “true homeland.”

In an October 14, 2023 post, Helwani identified as “a proud Jewish person” and described the October 7 attack as“indescribable,” writing that he cried multiple times daily. He stated he had“never felt prouder” to support Israel, unconditionally, while also emphasizing he wanted “peace for all” and “not a single innocent life lost.” He acknowledged criticism but insisted he knew “what’s right” and that those justifying October 7 were “misinformed.”

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The Broader Context

The confrontation unfolds against a deeply charged backdrop. An ongoing US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, established in October 2025 under President Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan, has been frequently violated through continued Israeli airstrikes, tunnel demolitions, and ground operations inside Gaza. Israel still controls roughly 53 percent of the territory, while Hamas retains some military capability.

According to UNICEF, over 71,800 Palestinians, including at least 21,289 children, have been reportedly killed in Gaza since hostilities escalated after October 7, 2023. The situation grew more volatile in late February when Israel and the US launched coordinated strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks from Tehran and adding another dangerous layer to an already deeply complicated regional conflict.

Helwani’s public profile makes him a visible target for those frustrated with media figures they believe have platforms large enough to influence opinion. His consistent and unconditional support for Israel, documented across multiple posts over two years, is precisely what drew the pro-Palestine supporters toward him that day. Whether on a UFC broadcast or a street in front of his children, Helwani’s views on the conflict remain anything but private.

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ALSO READ: Netflix Price Hike 2026: Fans Furious As Streaming Giant Raises Prices Ahead of Massive Rousey-Carano Fight Card

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The streaming giant raised subscription prices across all three tiers on Thursday, March 26, just weeks before the historic Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card scheduled for May 16 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

Here’s What You’re Paying Now For Netflix

The numbers are straightforward, and none of them are moving in your favor. The standard ad-supported plan jumped from $7.99 to $8.99 monthly. The ad-free two-device plan rose from $17.99 to $19.99. Premium subscribers, who get Ultra HD, HDR, and four simultaneous streams, now pay $26.99, up from $24.99.

Netflix defended the decision, telling Variety their goal was reinvesting in quality entertainment and improving member experience as they deliver more value. With over 325 million subscribers globally at the end of 2025, Netflix clearly calculated it could absorb any cancellations. The math apparently works in their favor.

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Is the Fight Card Driving the Decision?

The convenient timing raises obvious questions. Netflix’s first live MMA broadcast features a stacked lineup. Rousey vs. Carano headlines, with Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins and Nate Diaz vs. Mike Perry rounding out a card that Jake Paul’s MVP promotion put together.

But Netflix insists the price increase isn’t about one event. The company projected full-year 2026 revenue between $50.7 billion and $51.7 billion, a 14 percent year-over-year jump. They’ve also targeted a 31.5 percent operating margin and committed $20 billion toward content spending this year alone. The math points toward broader financial goals rather than MMA-specific ambitions. This also marks the second price hike in just over a year, following increases during the first quarter of 2025.

But here’s where Netflix’s gamble becomes interesting. Despite the increases, watching Rousey vs. Carano through a Netflix subscription still costs significantly less than traditional PPV pricing would. Fans quick to complain about the hike are simultaneously getting live championship-level MMA without an additional $60-80 purchase.

Some fans online have already drawn comparisons between this card and UFC’s Freedom 250 event scheduled for June 14 on the White House lawn. The fact that an outside promotion is generating that kind of conversation speaks volumes about what MVP and Netflix have built.

Netflix is betting that star power sells. Rousey’s comeback alone generates mainstream attention far beyond typical MMA audiences. Adding Carano, whose own return carries significant cultural weight, creates the kind of crossover moment Netflix built its live sports strategy around. Whether subscribers swallow the price increase or cancel their accounts will reveal just how much that star power is actually worth. 

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ALSO READ: “I Won’t Even Go Watch It There” – Israel Adesanya Explains His Stance On UFC’s White House Proposal

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Adesanya returns to action this Saturday at UFC Seattle after over a year away from competition. He faces dangerous rising contender Joe Pyfer in a main event that carries huge implications. Three consecutive losses have damaged Adesanya’s standing significantly within the middleweight division. The former champion made clear he has zero interest in attending or competing at the historic event.

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Israel Adesanya’s Interest Disappeared As World Conditions Changed

Israel Adesanya initially expressed some interest in potentially competing at the UFC White House card earlier this year. He mentioned he would consider the opportunity if fans were allowed to attend the event. That conditional interest suggested Adesanya wanted the atmosphere of a major crowd rather than fighting for VIPs exclusively. The former champion has always thrived off audience energy during his biggest performances throughout his career.

But just a few months later, Adesanya’s position has shifted dramatically regarding the entire White House event. He explained during a recent interview that global circumstances have changed his perspective completely. The 36-year-old made clear he’s not even interested in watching the event live from Washington D.C.

“I was only interested because at the time, the world was different but now with the way things are, it’s not really something I’m (interested in). Yeah, I won’t even go and watch it there, I’ll watch it from the comfort of my own house in New Zealand.”

Adesanya didn’t elaborate specifically on what world conditions changed his mind about the White House card. However, his comments suggest political or global situations have made the event less appealing personally. The timing of the event in June coincides with various international tensions and political controversies domestically. For Adesanya, staying home in New Zealand appears preferable to traveling halfway around the world for the spectacle.

The former champion’s disinterest represents a significant shift considering his previous status as a marquee attraction. At his peak, Adesanya would have been among the first fighters considered for such a historic card. His exciting fighting style and championship pedigree made him perfect for major events. But three straight losses have changed his bargaining position dramatically with UFC matchmakers.

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ALSO READ: Khabib Nurmagomedov Causes A Stir With Remarks About Women Fighting

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Recently, he addressed his stance on women competing in MMA during public comments. The retired champion explained his position based on biological differences between men and women. His comments immediately generated controversy across the MMA community and beyond with strong reactions from fans.

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Khabib Nurmagomedov Explains His Traditional Viewpoint

Khabib Nurmagomedov has been consistent about his more traditional beliefs regarding women in combat sports throughout his career. He’s never wavered from expressing these views despite criticism from Western media and fans. The former champion bases his opinions on cultural and religious teachings from his upbringing in Dagestan. While talking at the Sun Hills Development, Nurmagomedov stated plainly: 

“Every person in life has a mission. For a man, it’s to raise children, take care of the family, take care of loved ones. There are very few women who take on big responsibilities. It’s very hard for them. It’s not without reason. God created it this way: A woman is weaker, a man is stronger. People want to change and mix all of this. I don’t know how you feel about it, but I like when a man does men’s work, and a woman does women’s work.”.

Khabib’s perspective reflects cultural values from his Muslim faith and Dagestani upbringing specifically. In his community, traditional gender roles remain deeply ingrained despite global movements toward equality. Women are expected to fulfill different societal functions than men according to these conservative belief systems.

The retired champion’s comments contrast sharply with the growth of women’s MMA over the past decade. The UFC has built an entire roster of female fighters across multiple weight divisions. Stars like Amanda Nunes, Valentina Shevchenko, and Zhang Weili have proven women can compete at the highest levels. Their accomplishments have helped legitimize women’s MMA as a major draw for promotions worldwide.

Khabib Nurmagomedov remains one of the most respected figures in MMA history despite these controversial views. His perfect record and dominant performances earned him legendary status that won’t disappear overnight. But his comments about women fighting will certainly challenge his reputation among fans who support equality. 

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But now, McGregor has delivered another comeback announcement on social media that’s generating massive attention worldwide. The Irish superstar shared a mirror selfie on Instagram with a lengthy caption declaring his return is happening. 

Conor McGregor Makes His Latest Social Media Declaration

Conor McGregor’s Instagram post combined elements of announcement, warning, and celebration in typical McGregor fashion. The caption rambled across multiple topics while promising fans they’ll see him back inside the octagon soon. His writing style hasn’t changed despite years away from active competition completely.

“The rumours are true! Mr. Confidence returns to save fighting again! Call your grandma! Nanny we did it! Watch and pay me. F— you pay me. You fat Irish p—- you don’t have my money I put your brain to sleep. See ya’s in the Casinos after, the Mac loves yas all, I got love for yas all it’s an honor it’s light work it’s easy.”

McGregor continued his post by referencing his striking power and tagging Paramount+ specifically about his upcoming return. That detail caught attention because the UFC recently signed a massive broadcast deal with Paramount. Major events will air on their platform starting in 2026, including the historic White House card in June.

“BIG MONEY MAC DADDY MCGREGOR I EXPECT FAWNING OF THE HIGHEST FOR LIFE. I DO THIS FIGHT GAME EASY PEEZY. THE SOUND OF MY SHOTS OFF THE HEAD GO ‘BING’ in green dot laser form. Go BHB! Watch divine magic when I fight. Hey @paramountplus see you guys soon I’m so excited! And Born Ready.”

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The timing of McGregor’s announcement is interesting given recent developments in the lightweight division. Max Holloway just revealed he’d love a rematch with McGregor after losing to Charles Oliveira recently. Their first fight happened way back in 2013 when McGregor was still climbing the featherweight rankings. Holloway stated he’d fight McGregor at any weight since both men struggle with extreme cuts nowadays.

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The Nate Diaz Trilogy Fell Apart

Mike Perry believes Conor McGregor (22-6) is “punching the air” after Nate Diaz accepted a fight on the Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Netflix card. That bout apparently closes the door on Diaz returning to the UFC for a trilogy fight. McGregor and Diaz split their two meetings back in 2016 with each man winning once. The trilogy has been discussed constantly as McGregor’s ideal comeback opponent for years.

With Diaz now committed elsewhere, McGregor needs a new opponent for his UFC return. Max Holloway represents a compelling option given their history and Holloway’s current losing streak. The rematch would generate significant interest despite happening 13 years after their first encounter. Whether the UFC actually books this fight or McGregor disappears again remains uncertain given his track record.

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ALSO READ: Rivals No More? Alex Pereira Backs Israel Adesanya Before UFC Seattle!

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Israel Adesanya faces a critical moment in his career this Saturday at UFC Seattle against Joe Pyfer. The former champion has suffered three straight losses and hasn’t won a fight in nearly three years. His 24-5 record still looks impressive, but momentum has completely abandoned him during this losing streak. But now, Pereira took to social media to wish his former rival well ahead of the main event.

Alex Pereira Credits Israel Adesanya For His Growth

Alex Pereira’s message to Israel Adesanya surprised many fans expecting continued trash talk between the former rivals. Instead, Pereira reflected on how their rivalry helped shape his journey to becoming a champion. He specifically mentioned that his loss to Adesanya at UFC 287 taught him valuable lessons about evolution.

“Saturday is fight night once again. Much respect to Israel Adesanya—we’ve shared the octagon and moments that became part of my journey. That loss taught me a lot; it pushed me to evolve not only as a fighter, but as a man. I grew, matured, and used it as fuel to reach a higher level in the sport and in life. “Regardless of rivalry, I know what it means to step in there—the years of work, the pressure, the sacrifice. That’s why I wish you a great fight. Go in focused and show your best. We keep evolving. See you at the top, CHAMA.”

Pereira continued by acknowledging the sacrifices required to compete at the highest levels of MMA. He recognized the years of work, pressure, and dedication that go into every fight regardless of outcomes. That understanding comes from someone who’s walked the same difficult path as a champion himself.

The message reveals genuine respect between two fighters whose careers have been intertwined since kickboxing. It gave Adesanya closure on their rivalry while providing Pereira motivation to move forward.

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Adesanya Has Also Shown Respect For Pereira

Israel Adesanya previously revealed that their rivalry was never personal despite the intensity of their battles. He went as far as saying he hopes Pereira never loses another fight. Adesanya even stated he hopes Pereira retires undefeated, which is remarkable coming from someone he’s fought four times across two sports.

That mutual respect explains why Pereira’s message feels genuine rather than strategic mind games before a potential rematch. Pereira is currently preparing to face Ciryl Gane for an interim heavyweight title at the UFC White House card. His career is moving forward at full speed, yet he still paused to acknowledge Adesanya.

Adesanya needs this UFC Seattle main event against Joe Pyfer desperately. Three straight losses have damaged his standing significantly in the middleweight division. If Adesanya loses again, his career could spiral toward retirement discussions rather than title shot conversations.

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ALSO READ: Colby Covington Steps Away from Politics, Citing Concerns Over “Dirty” Nature

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Now, in a surprising turn, Covington is walking away from the political world he embraced so publicly ahead of his Real American Freestyle wrestling match. The 38 year old fighter revealed his decision in an interview with Bloody Elbow before facing Dillon Danis at RAF 07. His comments suggest genuine disillusionment with the political system after years of active involvement and campaigning.

Colby Covington Feels Loyalty Goes Unrewarded in Politics

Colby Covington spoke candidly about why he’s abandoning his political persona moving forward from this point. The fighter who once dreamed of becoming Florida’s governor now wants nothing to do with campaigns. He specifically mentioned that loyalty never gets rewarded in the political game he once enthusiastically played.

“You know, I love Trump, he’s a great guy, but I’m not really political. In the future, you won’t see me campaigning or actively involved in politics. I don’t want to be a part of it anymore. It’s a dirty game, and loyalty is never rewarded.”

Covington’s disillusionment likely stems partly from getting snubbed from the UFC White House card scheduled for June 14th. He campaigned heavily for a spot on that historic event given his political connections. Many assumed his relationship with Donald Trump would guarantee him a featured spot on the card. Instead, the UFC left him off completely without explanation for the exclusion.

The former title challenger admitted he was initially frustrated when he learned about the snub. He said things to media outlets he probably shouldn’t have shared in the heat of anger. But after reflecting on the situation, Covington claims he’s made peace with not fighting at the White House. He pointed out that he’s already delivered a championship belt to Trump in the Oval Office previously. He’s attended multiple election night events and toured the West Wing during his political involvement.

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New Focus on Business Ventures Instead

Colby Covington’s ambitions have shifted dramatically from political office to business ventures according to his recent comments. He mentioned his previous dreams of becoming governor of Florida, a senator, or congressman. Those political aspirations have been completely abandoned in favor of different priorities that keep him away from campaigns.

“My dream before was to be the governor of Florida, a senator, a congressman. Nah — now I just want to do business with Real American Beer, RAF, and mind my own business in peace.”

The timing of this announcement raises obvious questions about whether Covington will reinvent himself with a completely new persona. His political character defined him for nearly a decade of his fighting career. Removing that element leaves a significant void in how he promotes fights and generates interest. Will he revert back to his pre-2016 personality before adopting the MAGA persona originally?

For now, Covington focuses on his Real American Freestyle wrestling match against Dillon Danis this Saturday at RAF 07. The co-main event takes place at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. Whether Covington truly abandons politics permanently or this represents temporary frustration remains to be seen over time.

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ALSO READ: Jonathan Haggerty Returns to South London Roots Ahead of Yuki Yoza Title Defense in Japan

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Fighting in front of Yoza’s home crowd adds pressure that Haggerty rarely experiences during his championship tenure. Most ONE Championship events take place in Southeast Asia where Haggerty enjoys neutral or supportive audiences. But traveling to Japan means facing hostile territory where every strike from Yoza will generate roaring approval. 

Haggerty, who was earlier sponsored by Sidekick Boxing, made an interesting decision during his training camp that caught many observers by surprise recently. He returned to South London than staying in Thailand.

The champion left his usual training environment to prepare at his family gym in the UK. That shift back to where his fighting journey began represents more than just a change of scenery. Training alongside his father, brother, and local fighters has provided mental and physical benefits he felt were missing.

Jonathan Haggerty Respects Yoza’s Threat But Remains Confident

Jonathan Haggerty has defended his ONE Championship bantamweight kickboxing title multiple times against elite competition. He’s faced dangerous strikers with various styles throughout his reign without tasting defeat. But Yoza presents unique challenges that require specific preparation and game planning. The Japanese contender has already defeated top-level fighters in his career with impressive performances. His striking credentials demand respect from anyone stepping into the ring against him.

Haggerty openly acknowledged Yoza’s skills during recent interviews about the upcoming title defense in Japan. The British champion specifically mentioned Yoza’s leg attacks as a major threat he needs to defend against. Low kicks can completely change fights by destroying mobility and sapping energy from opponents. If Yoza lands heavy leg kicks consistently early, Haggerty’s movement and offensive output could suffer dramatically.

Despite recognizing those dangers, Haggerty believes he’ll prove “too much” for the Japanese challenger once the fight begins. The champion’s confidence stems from his own elite striking abilities and championship experience. He’s been in high-pressure situations countless times and knows how to perform when titles are on the line. That mental edge matters enormously when facing a dangerous opponent in hostile territory.

Haggerty even hinted at a potential early finish if he executes his game plan correctly from the opening bell. That aggressive mindset suggests he won’t approach this fight cautiously despite the legitimate threats Yoza presents. Early finishes establish dominance immediately and silence hostile crowds before they can influence judging. Haggerty clearly wants to make a statement rather than grind out a decision victory.

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Training in South London Provides Mental Boost

Jonathan Haggerty’s decision to prepare for this fight in South London rather than Thailand carries significant meaning. Many elite fighters develop comfortable training routines in specific gyms with familiar coaching staffs. Breaking that pattern usually happens for specific reasons rather than random preference changes. Haggerty felt he needed something different mentally and physically after dealing with injuries recently.

Returning to his family gym in South London reconnected Haggerty with his fighting roots in profound ways. He trains alongside his father and brother who have been part of his journey since the beginning. That family atmosphere provides emotional support beyond what professional training camps typically offer. The local fighters at the gym push Haggerty differently than international training partners might.

Haggerty mentioned that this return to his origins filled gaps he experienced during his injury recovery period. Injuries can drain fighters mentally as much as physically when rehabilitation takes months. Being away from competition and regular training creates feelings of isolation and frustration. Coming home to South London and training with family helped restore Haggerty’s passion and focus.

The champion feels both mentally and physically rejuvenated after this training camp decision. That positive energy should translate into the ring when he faces Yoza in Japan. Mental preparation matters just as much as physical conditioning when defending championships against elite challengers. Haggerty’s confidence and sharpness will be tested immediately once the fight begins.

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ALSO READ: Anthony Joshua Shares Inspirational Quote As He Plans To Return To Boxing

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Jones clearly isn’t sitting around feeling sorry for himself after getting snubbed from the White House card. The 38-year-old legend took to Instagram Sunday to announce his next role as an ambassador for IBA Bare Knuckle. His first event with the promotion happens this Friday in St. Petersburg, Russia with a stacked six-fight card.

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Jon Jones Becomes Permanent Co-Host For IBA Bare Knuckle

Jon Jones shared a video on Instagram explaining his new partnership with IBA Bare Knuckle to his millions of followers. The announcement caught everyone in the MMA community completely off guard given his ongoing issues with the UFC. Nobody expected Jones to align himself with another combat sports organization so quickly after the White House card drama.

“Hello, this is MMA legend Jon ‘Bones’ Jones. And I’m excited to announce my new partnership as an ambassador for IBA Bare Knuckle. Big thank you to you, Alfredo… My first event with the company is going to be in St. Petersburg [on] March 28th. I’m super excited to see you all there, and let’s have a Hara Showtime.”

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Jones will serve as the promotion’s permanent co-host for events moving forward according to posts shared on social media. That role keeps him actively involved in combat sports without actually competing himself. The March 28th card features a high-profile main event between former UFC title challenger Yoel Romero and local fighter Vagab Vagabov. Having Jones as co-host immediately elevates the event’s profile internationally.

The International Boxing Association officially introduced bare-knuckle boxing as a new discipline in May 2025. They launched their first major event, IBA Bare Knuckle 1, on July 26th, 2025 in Moscow, Russia. Since that inaugural show, the organization has staged two more events exclusively in Russia. The IBA previously oversaw boxing at the Olympic Games before being stripped of those duties by the International Olympic Committee in June 2023 due to governance and transparency issues.

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ALSO READ: “Is It Time?”- Arman Tsarukyan Puts UFC Fans in Charge of His Next Move

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The frustration of waiting has pushed Tsarukyan to consider alternative options for staying active and relevant. He’s competed in Real American Freestyle wrestling matches to keep busy between UFC bookings. He even had a post-fight brawl with Gerogio Poullas at RAF 6 that generated massive attention. Now, Tsarukyan is teasing a potential move, but is asking fans whether that would be what they want. 

Arman Tsarukyan Offers To Save The Featherweight Division

Arman Tsarukyan (23-3) watched UFC London’s main event Saturday night like millions of other MMA fans worldwide. Movsar Evloev faced Lerone Murphy in a crucial featherweight contender bout with title shot implications. Both fighters entered undefeated with lengthy win streaks and legitimate claims to challenge Volkanovski next. The fight went the distance with Evloev winning via majority decision in a closely contested battle.

After watching that main event unfold, Tsarukyan took to social media with a provocative question for fans. He posted on Threads asking whether it’s time for him to save the featherweight division entirely. The post suggests Tsarukyan believes neither Evloev nor Murphy presents a compelling challenge to the dominant champion. He sees an opening to insert himself into the featherweight title picture instead.

“UFC fans, is it time for me to save the featherweight division?”

Tsarukyan also tweeted that he’s “next” following Evloev’s victory over Murphy on Saturday night. That bold declaration indicates he might be serious about making the move down to 145 pounds. The Armenian fighter has consistently stated his body can handle the weight cut without major issues. More importantly, he’s claimed the move wouldn’t be temporary for just one fight if he drops down.

The timing makes sense from Tsarukyan’s perspective given the lightweight title situation remains stuck in limbo. Topuria and Gaethje won’t unify the belts until June 14th at the UFC White House card. The winner will need recovery time before defending against the next challenger in line. That means Tsarukyan could be waiting until late 2026 or even early 2027 for his lightweight title opportunity.

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The Featherweight Move Makes Competitive Sense

Arman Tsarukyan’s potential drop to featherweight presents interesting stylistic problems for Alexander Volkanovski specifically. The Armenian possesses elite wrestling credentials that could trouble the champion’s defensive grappling. Volkanovski has stuffed countless takedowns during his title reign, but Tsarukyan’s pressure and chain wrestling might overwhelm him. Khabib Nurmagomedov recently predicted Tsarukyan would have an 80-20 advantage over Topuria based purely on wrestling ability.

That same wrestling advantage would apply against Volkanovski, who’s primarily a striker with solid defensive wrestling fundamentals. Tsarukyan combines his grappling with improving striking that’s become more dangerous over recent fights. The combination of wrestling threat and striking power makes Tsarukyan a nightmare matchup.

Volkanovski has acknowledged the potential challenge publicly, stating he loves facing tough opponents regardless of weight class. The champion mentioned Tsarukyan specifically when asked about potential featherweight challengers recently. He admitted the Armenian would present a difficult test if he successfully makes the weight cut. But Volkanovski also pointed to other deserving contenders like Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy.

Dana White hasn’t made any official announcements about Volkanovski’s next title defense following UFC London’s main event. Evloev called for a title shot immediately after defeating Murphy on Saturday night. However, his majority decision victory wasn’t dominant enough to guarantee anything from the UFC president. White could easily book Volkanovski against Tsarukyan instead if the Armenian commits to featherweight.

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ALSO READ: Darren Till Targets Carl Froch Fight, Says He Has Four Years Left in Combat Sports

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