Colby Covington edged Chris Weidman 5-4 at RAF 9. Following the victory, Covington and Arman Tsarukyan agreed to fight on July 18 in Milwaukee at RAF 11.
Colby Covington extended his winning run with a narrow 5-4 decision over Chris Weidman at RAF 9 on May 31, 2026, then wasted little time securing his next assignment — an agreement to face Arman Tsarukyan on July 18 in Milwaukee at RAF 11.
Covington, 38, carries a 17-5-0 record and has built his reputation on relentless pressure and elite wrestling. The 180-centimeter southpaw — known as "Chaos" — lands 3.81 significant strikes per minute and averages 3.64 takedowns per 15 minutes, making him one of the most consistent grapplers on the roster. He trains out of MMA Masters.
Weidman, 42, entered the bout at 16-7-0 and fought under the banner of Serra-Longo Fight Team. The six-foot-two New Yorker known as "The All-American" remains a technically sound competitor, averaging 3.27 takedowns per 15 minutes and landing 45 percent of his significant strikes. The defeat drops him to 16-8-0, but his 78-inch reach and wrestling base made the contest close enough to reach a split scoreline.
Standing across from Covington at RAF 11 will be Arman Tsarukyan, 29, the number-one ranked lightweight in the division. The Russian standout, training out of American Top Team, owns a 23-3-0 record and is among the most accurate strikers available, connecting on 50 percent of his significant strikes at a volume of 3.85 per minute. At 170 centimeters with a 183-centimeter reach, "Ahalkalakets" is also a capable wrestler, averaging 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Covington steps up to face the top-ranked lightweight after a momentum-building win, raising the stakes considerably.
- Tsarukyan enters as the division's premier contender, meaning the winner could move into a title position.
- Both fighters rely on high-volume striking and takedown pressure, pointing toward a technically demanding, fast-paced contest.
