Last-minute lifeline: Dana White selects Arman Tsarukyan as main-event insurance

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Last-minute lifeline: Dana White selects Arman Tsarukyan as main-event insurance

Originally posted on HITC | By Nazario Assad | Last updated May 8, 2026 4:16 PM ET

Arman Tsarukyan could end up headlining the biggest UFC event ever if either of the main event fighters is forced to pull out.

Ilia Topuria is set to defend his lightweight belt against interim champion Justin Gaethje on June 14 at UFC White House. But if either one of them gets hurt or can’t make weight, Tsarukyan will be ready to step in.

Tsarukyan’s rise hasn’t been without its issues. He had a falling out with Dana White after pulling out of the UFC 311 main event just a day before the fight.

But since then, he’s built his profile with wins and a growing reputation outside the UFC, turning himself into one of their most marketable names.

Arman Tsarukyan named as back-up for UFC White House by Dana White

The UFC White House event was officially launched earlier this week when President Donald Trump hosted the main and co-main event fighters at the Oval Office. Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane joined Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje for face-offs on the South Lawn.

In a stream, Dana White told Nina Drama that he has officially made Arman Tsarukyan the back-up for the main event. He was asked about the popular Armenian’s next fight, and replied: “If anything happens to that fight, Arman is in there.”

Tsarukyan has had just one UFC appearance since April 2024, but he hasn’t been idle. He’s kept busy with regular appearances in grappling events and RAF Wrestling matches, with two more fights already scheduled.

He’s set to take on influencer Mugzy at RAF09 in Arlington before facing Tony Ferguson a few weeks later at their tenth event.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: