Arman Tsarukyan's post-UFC 331 plans are as ambitious as they are intriguing. After his highly anticipated bout against Mauricio Ruffy, Tsarukyan is already looking beyond the Octagon, with a potential boxing debut on the horizon. This isn't just a casual interest; it's a strategic move to enhance his overall fighting prowess.
Tsarukyan's grappling and wrestling prowess are well-documented. His recent matches against Muhammad Mokaev, Mehdi Baydulaev, and Ankit Baiyanpuria showcase his submission skills. However, his true passion lies in freestyle wrestling, where he's become a top star for Real American Freestyle. This dedication to wrestling has paid off, improving his takedowns and overall clinch work.
But Tsarukyan's ambitions go beyond the mat. He's been vocal about his desire to box, citing Dana White's Zuffa Boxing as a potential platform for his next challenge. This isn't just about the thrill of stepping into the ring; it's about expanding his skill set and becoming a more well-rounded fighter.
"I’ve improved my grappling. I used to spar and couldn’t submit a lot of people, but right now I submit (people) every round," Tsarukyan explained to MMA Junkie. "And then RAF came and I started wrestling. Now, in the clinch or when I’m taking the legs, I land takedowns way better than before, so I’ve improved my freestyle wrestling as well. Now it’s time to work on my boxing."
The idea of Tsarukyan stepping into the boxing ring against his former UFC lightweight rival, Islam Makhachev, is both intriguing and controversial. Their MMA rematch fell through, but a boxing match could offer a different dynamic. It's a bold move that could either solidify Tsarukyan's legacy or lead to a public relations nightmare.
In the end, Tsarukyan's post-UFC 331 plans are a testament to his ambition and dedication to his craft. Whether it's wrestling, grappling, or boxing, he's constantly pushing himself to be better. As fans, we can only hope that his side quests lead to even greater success in the Octagon.
