Arman Tsarukyan made a massive statement earlier tonight (Sat., Dec. 2, 2023) at UFC Austin live on ESPN/ESPN+ from inside Moody Center in Austin, Tex., stopping lightweight contender Beneil Dariush with an absolutely devastating first-round knockout (punches).
This was a big opportunity for Tsarukyan to defeat a proven contender in the division and punch his ticket to a top 5 ranking. Dariush has only lost to Charles Oliveira since 2018 so this was exactly the type of fight Tsarukyan needed in order to stand out entering 2024.
Fortunately for Tsarukyan, his plan played out accordingly. He quickly went on the offensive and started to press Dariush in the center of the cage. Tsarukyan went for a knee inside and missed, but before his leg touched the ground he had launched a crisp right hand. It connected flush on Dariush’s chin and toppled him over. Tsarukyan jumped on top and landed a collection of powerful right hands that put Dariush out for the count.
Check out the final moments below:
ARMAN TSARUKYAN JUST PUT DARIUSH OUT COLD AT #UFCAustin pic.twitter.com/gHtOdLsk1Z
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) December 3, 2023
Tsarukyan, 27, has now won his last three UFC appearances after dropping a decision loss to Mateusz Gamrot back in 2022. He’s 8-2 overall in a talent-rich lightweight division, but with a knockout over Dariush in his back pocket there’s a chance Tsarukyan is a win or two away from a UFC title shot.
For complete UFC Austin results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.