Lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has revealed that the UFC recently sent him an unexpected bonus payment of $42,000. The Armenian fighter stated he was unsure why he received the money, as the promotion typically doesn't explain such payments. Tsarukyan speculated the bonus might be related to his social media activity or promotional work but admitted he didn't ask for clarification. He joked that his manager might request a percentage if he inquired about the payment's purpose. The disclosure highlights the UFC's practice of issuing discretionary bonuses to fighters beyond their contracted purses. Tsarukyan mentioned that the UFC regularly sends him extra bonuses beyond his standard compensation.
The UFC quietly dropped an unexpected $42,000 payment into Arman Tsarukyan's account, and the lightweight contender has now gone public about the surprise windfall.
Tsarukyan, ranked first in the lightweight division, disclosed the payment without having a clear explanation for it. The 29-year-old said the UFC typically doesn't provide a reason when it sends discretionary bonuses, and he admitted he didn't push for one. He speculated the money could be tied to his social media presence or promotional contributions, but acknowledged that was little more than a guess. He also joked that asking too many questions might prompt his manager to claim a cut of the payment.
The Armenian fighter, who trains out of American Top Team, carries a 23-3-0 professional record and has established himself as one of the most dangerous fighters in the 155-pound division. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, Tsarukyan operates out of an orthodox stance and brings consistent offensive output, landing 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy. He also threatens regularly on the mat, averaging 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- The disclosure offers a rare glimpse into the UFC's practice of issuing discretionary payments outside of fighters' contracted purses.
- Tsarukyan noted these extra bonuses arrive regularly, suggesting the UFC uses them as an informal retention and incentive tool for high-profile athletes.
- As the number-one ranked lightweight, Tsarukyan's market value to the promotion — both inside the cage and on social media — makes him a logical candidate for such payments.
