Two Fighters, One Grappling Match: Poirier and Tsarukyan's Unlikely Showdown

Early Discussions for Unique Showdown

Dustin Poirier and Arman Tsarukyan are in early talks for a grappling match set to take place in February. This isn't your typical UFC fight. Poirier, who retired last summer after two decades in the sport, is seeking a way to stay competitive without the intense training and weight cuts. Meanwhile, Tsarukyan finds himself in limbo within the UFC lightweight division.

Tsarukyan's Grappling Prowess

Tsarukyan has been active outside the UFC, recently engaging in a grappling match against Shara Magomedov, which ended in a draw. He is scheduled to wrestle former PFL champion Lance Palmer on January 10, keeping him active while he waits for a UFC title shot.

Poirier's Struggle with Retirement

Poirier has been candid about his retirement struggles, admitting he misses fighting daily. A grappling match offers him a competitive outlet without the pressure of a title fight, allowing him to stay connected to the sport he loves.

Grappling: A Familiar Territory for Poirier

Grappling is nothing new to Poirier. He has leveraged his grappling skills to secure victories in the past, including a submission win over Anthony Pettis with a body triangle. This demonstrates his versatility as a well-rounded fighter.

Beyond Rankings and Titles

This matchup transcends rankings and titles. It's about two fighters navigating the unpredictable world of combat sports. Poirier seeks to fill the void left by retirement, while Tsarukyan aims to stay relevant while awaiting his UFC opportunity.

Tsarukyan's Crossover Appeal

Tsarukyan's recent grappling match caught the attention of Hype FC, who approached actor Tom Hardy for a potential bout. Although Hardy couldn't participate due to filming commitments, this highlights Tsarukyan's growing crossover appeal, drawing interest beyond the traditional fight world. In a sport where momentum is crucial, Tsarukyan is proving to be a force to be reckoned with.