Arman Tsarukyan, UFC’s number one lightweight division contender in mixed martial arts, will fight in Yerevan, Armenia, on December 30, 2025, at the Karen Demirchyan Sports Complex. He will headline the Hype Fighting tournament (Hype FC) in a special grappling or Brazilian jiu jitsu bout. Tsarukyan said in a video posted on social media that the name of his opponent will be shocking, and organizers report that the opponent will be announced soon. Under UFC regulations, Tsarukyan is allowed to compete only in grappling, BJJ, or other wrestling based tournaments, not in bare knuckle formats.
The first bare knuckle Hype Fighting League tournament will be held, bringing together top Armenian combat athletes in one of the most anticipated events in Armenia. With a high degree of probability, the rest of the card will feature bare knuckle matchups, while Tsarukyan’s bout will follow grappling rules in line with UFC requirements. The tournament is expected to become one of the most spectacular combat sports events in Armenia’s history, with Tsarukyan’s participation serving as the highlight of the evening.
Well known Armenian fighters will compete, including Lendrush Akopyan, Vage Sarukhanyan, Gennady Makaryan, Roman Kalashyan, Taron Oganesyan, Armen Ataev, and others. Below is the currently announced Hype FC card, with the main event featuring Tsarukyan to be revealed later. The tournament is sponsored by Forged Irish Stout, Conor McGregor’s beer brand. Tickets are on sale.
