Arman Tsarukyan showcased why he’s one to watch in RAF Wrestling, steamrolling UFC legend Urijah Faber in Philadelphia despite a dramatic flight expulsion.
Travel turmoil fuels headline triumph
Tsarukyan’s weekend ignited long before he set foot on the mat. Kicked off an American Airlines flight en route to RAF 08, the lightweight contender chartered a private jet to make the City of Brotherly Love. His ordeal only seemed to fire him up: he sizzled through four quick pins en route to an 8–0 lead, securing a technical fall over Faber and leaving the former WEC champion gasping for answers by the closing bell.
View this post on Instagram
Main event collapse overshadows card
The original RAF 08 headliner between bantamweight greats Henry Cejudo and Merab Dvalishvili was scratched just hours before the first whistle, citing an undisclosed injury. Dvalishvili, who outpointed Cejudo in their 2024 clash, remained on site for fan duties despite the late pull-out. Cejudo, Olympic gold medallist and two-weight UFC king, missed his return bout on the mat, leaving organisers scrambling for new marquee appeal.
Undercard upsets and star power
RAF Wrestling salvaged the evening with a slew of compelling contests. Olympic champion Kyle Snyder rallied from 6–0 down to beat Rizabek Aitmukhan 12–6 in the co-main event, while Shamil Sharipov dismantled Anthony Cassioppi in ruthless fashion. The promotion even dropped a bombshell signing, announcing Khamzat Chimaev for a future card. With heavyweight buzz building and veterans like Helen Maroulis and Lance Palmer also in action, RAF is staking its claim as wrestling’s premier crossover showcase.
Though the main event fizzled, RAF 08 delivered high-octane action and drama, cementing Tsarukyan’s rising profile. As the promotion eyes its next blockbuster, fans will be tuning in to see whether Chimaev’s arrival and Tsarukyan’s momentum can eclipse this week’s chaos.
FAQ
What was the result of Arman Tsarukyan vs Urijah Faber at RAF 08?
Tsarukyan defeated Faber by technical fall after securing multiple pins to build an 8–0 lead, prompting the referee to stop the match.
Why was Henry Cejudo vs Merab Dvalishvili cancelled?
The bantamweight main event was pulled hours before the card due to an injury, though the promotion has not disclosed specifics.
Who stole the show on the undercard at RAF 08?
Olympic gold medallist Kyle Snyder rallied from a 6–0 deficit to beat Rizabek Aitmukhan 12–6, while Shamil Sharipov also impressed with a dominant win over Anthony Cassioppi.
What’s next for Arman Tsarukyan after RAF 08?
Tsarukyan’s emphatic victory has UFC matchmakers taking notice; a return to the octagon or another high-profile grappling showcase are both on the cards.
