At the press conference following UFC Fight Night in Seattle, UFC CEO Dana White was asked about the possibility of lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan competing under the UFC’s grappling banner. He was also asked whether a matchup against Brazilian jiu-jitsu standout Mikey Musumeci could realistically happen.
The question came after a reporter noted Tsarukyan’s recent surge in grappling activity, pointing out that he had competed in seven submission grappling matches over the past seven months.
The reporter also referenced earlier comments from Claudia Gadelha, who had previously expressed interest in putting together a Tsarukyan vs. Musumeci matchup.
When asked directly whether Tsarukyan would be allowed to compete in UFC BJJ, White gave a typically noncommittal but permissive response.
He said, “I guess. I don’t know. Is that what he wants to do?”
The reporter clarified that the push for the matchup was coming from within the organization, emphasizing that Gadelha was actively interested in making the bout happen and highlighting Tsarukyan’s recent grappling run.
White then delivered what amounted to his clearest signal of support during the exchange. He stated, “Well, I believe if Claudia wants it done, she’ll get it done.”
Tsarukyan has quietly built a reputation as one of the most active grapplers on the UFC roster outside of MMA competition. The idea of him stepping onto the UFC BJJ stage to face Musumeci, widely regarded as one of the top pound-for-pound submission grapplers in the world, has generated growing interest among fans.
Musumeci typically competes at 125 pounds (56.7 kg) and has long been associated with the UFC’s grappling initiatives, making him a natural opponent for a showcase matchup.
Tsarukyan, who competes at 155 pounds (70.3 kg) in the octagon, would likely need to cut significant weight for such a contest. Currently, no official details about a potential bout have been confirmed.
