Arman Tsarukyan will compete at RAF 9 on May 31, facing opponent Kielon Jimison. The announcement confirms Tsarukyan's return to the Russian promotion after his UFC campaign. No additional details about the matchup or bout agreement were provided in the brief post. The event marks a significant booking for RAF 9. Tsarukyan's participation adds a notable name to the card.
Arman Tsarukyan is set to return to Russian competition when he meets Kielon Jimison at RAF 9 on May 31, 2026, the promotion confirmed.
Tsarukyan, known by the nickname "Ahalkalakets," is one of the most recognizable names in the lightweight division on the global scene. The 29-year-old Russian holds a record of 23 wins and 3 losses and is currently ranked first in the world at lightweight. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, he fights out of American Top Team in an orthodox stance. His numbers reflect a well-rounded, high-output fighter: he lands 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy and averages 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes, making him a genuine threat in all areas of the cage.
No verified data for opponent Kielon Jimison was available in the announcement, and further details about the bout agreement were not provided.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan's return to RAF marks a notable step back into Russian regional promotion for the world's top-ranked lightweight contender
- The booking immediately elevates the RAF 9 card and signals the promotion's ambition to attract elite-level talent
- With Tsarukyan ranked first at lightweight globally, any result carries potential implications for his divisional standing heading into future campaigns
