Arman Tsarukyan Faces UFC Suspension and Fine After Fan Altercation

Arman Tsarukyan, the Armenian UFC lightweight contender, has been handed a suspension and a fine following an altercation with a fan during his walkout at UFC 300 in April. According to reports from ESPN, Tsarukyan (22-3) has been suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) for nine months, with the possibility of reducing it to six months if he agrees to participate in an anti-bullying public service announcement.

The incident occurred when Tsarukyan, known for his skills in the octagon, threw a punch at a fan who appeared to gesture provocatively towards him during his entrance. Despite the altercation being captured live on the UFC broadcast, Tsarukyan's victory over Charles Oliveira in a No. 1 contender matchup remains a highlight of his career trajectory.

Tsarukyan's suspension, slated to potentially end by October 12 if he complies with the NSAC's conditions, includes a fine of $25,000. His management team, led by Daniel Rubenstein, expressed appreciation for the NSAC's handling of the situation and affirmed Tsarukyan's commitment to cooperate in producing the anti-bullying PSA.

"Arman appreciates the NSAC’s dealings in this matter and looks forward to working with the UFC and NSAC to produce an anti-bullying PSA to reduce his suspension and competing for a UFC lightweight title before the end of the year," Rubenstein stated in a released statement.

Despite the disciplinary action, Tsarukyan's career prospects in the UFC remain promising. His victory over Oliveira positioned him as a strong contender in the lightweight division, potentially setting up a showdown with current champion Islam Makhachev in late October in Abu Dhabi.

Tsarukyan, aged 27 and hailing from Armenia, has not faced legal repercussions beyond the NSAC's disciplinary measures.