Arman Tsarukyan's gamble on Justin Gaethje paid off in a dramatic fashion at UFC.
The lightweight contender had turned heads by backing Gaethje with a $1 million bet, predicting an upset over Ilia Topuria in their main event title fight.
That call proved spot on, as Topuria was knocked out in the fourth round. The win earned Tsarukyan a massive payout of $5.7 million, making the night even more memorable.
Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC
Arman Tsarukyan's White House windfall has stirred up some controversy, given that UFC fighters have been prohibited from betting on fights since 2022.
Dana White claims the bet was placed by one of Tsarukyan's friends, but the Armenian isn't shy about enjoying the victory after UFC Freedom 250.
"They called us crazy," Tsarukyan posted on Instagram, sharing a photo of his winning slip. Ilia, if you need money for your medical bills, let me know."
He went on to say in a post on X that he would use some of his $5.7 million payout to buy a new truck for Justin Gaethje. Tweeting at the newly crowned UFC lightweight champion: "What color truck you want? @justingaethje."
Ilia Topuria probably won't get an immediate rematch after losing his first 155-pound title defence. As the long-standing top contender in the division, Arman Tsarukyan seems like the obvious choice to challenge Justin Gaethje next.
Tsarukyan hasn't fought since his win over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024 and currently has no bout scheduled.
He recently shifted his focus to wrestling, where he dominated UFC legend Tony Ferguson at RAF 10 on Friday night.
The Armenian has two more grappling matches lined up: one at RAF Georgia on July 11 and another against former interim UFC welterweight champion Colby Covington at RAF 11 a week later.
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