The ACB JJ promotion has announced a grappling match between Yusuf Raisov and Arman Tsarukyan scheduled for 2026. The specific date for the bout has not yet been confirmed. Both fighters are known for their grappling skills, making this a highly anticipated matchup in the grappling community. Further details about the event are expected to be announced at a later date.
ACB JJ has announced a grappling match between Yusuf Raisov and Arman Tsarukyan, with the bout set for sometime in 2026. A specific date for the contest has yet to be confirmed, with the promotion indicating that further event details will follow at a later stage.
Tsarukyan enters the matchup as one of the most accomplished grapplers in mixed martial arts. The 29-year-old Russian, who trains out of American Top Team, currently holds the number one contender spot in the UFC lightweight division and carries a professional MMA record of 23-3-0. Known by his nickname "Ahalkalakets," the five-foot-seven orthodox fighter sports a 72-inch reach and has demonstrated a well-rounded offensive game throughout his career, averaging 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy while also threatening consistently on the mat with 3.26 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Raisov's verified record and divisional data were not available at time of publication. His inclusion in an ACB JJ event, however, signals recognition of his standing in the grappling world, and the promotion has framed the pairing as a clash of two legitimately skilled submission-oriented competitors.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the UFC's top-ranked lightweight contender, giving the event significant crossover appeal beyond traditional grappling audiences.
- A pure grappling format will highlight the ground-based skills Tsarukyan has consistently deployed in MMA competition.
- The matchup adds to a growing trend of high-profile MMA fighters competing in submission grappling events during gaps in their UFC schedules.
