Arman Tsarukyan Tries Wild Rear-Naked Choke On REAL Alligator As He Awaits Next UFC Booking

UFC lightweight Arman Tsarukyan continues to capture attention with his remarkable adventures outside the Octagon. As he anticipates his next official UFC bout, Tsarukyan has remained exceptionally active, participating in various grappling competitions and engaging in high-profile social media activities.

Following his split decision victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024, Tsarukyan was initially slated to challenge then-lightweight champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 in January 2025 but had to withdraw due to injury. Since then, "Ahalkalakets" has actively competed in nine wrestling and submission grappling matches across different promotions globally. He also secured a submission win against Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar last November and has already competed four times outside MMA promotions in the first quarter of 2026 alone.

Beyond his competitive pursuits, the 29-year-old Armenian fighter maintains a strong social media presence, sharing extravagant culinary experiences and appearing on various streams, notably alongside influencers like Nina-Marie Daniele, which has significantly boosted his public profile.

Arman Tsarukyan's Daring Encounter with a Real Alligator

Tsarukyan recently elevated his string of wild exploits by attempting a playful "choke" on an alligator. Just days after securing a decision victory against former opponent Georgio Poullas in the main event of RAF 07, Tsarukyan visited Everglades Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale. During a live stream with Nina Drama and KICK streamer N3ON, the top-ranked UFC lightweight entered an alligator enclosure.

In a moment of viral entertainment, Tsarukyan sat on the back of the giant reptile and humorously inquired about attempting a rear-naked choke. Despite assurances from park staff regarding safety, Tsarukyan wisely opted against placing his arm near the alligator’s powerful jaws, instead playfully mimicking the choke for the cameras. The alligator was carefully managed by nearby trainers while Tsarukyan playfully bounced, pretending to ride the impressive creature.

Looking ahead, Arman Tsarukyan is scheduled to face UFC veteran Urijah Faber in the co-main event of RAF 08 on April 18. This exciting matchup will take place at the Liacouras Center at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.