“We Lived in Ghetto”- Arman Tsarukyan’s Brother Shuts Down Rich Lifestyle Criticism from Other UFC Fighters

UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan's brother highlights the reality behind their wealthy lifestyle and early life.

“We Lived in Ghetto”- Arman Tsarukyan’s Brother Shuts Down Rich Lifestyle Criticism from Other UFC Fighters

Arman Tsarukyan's brother highlights early hardships (via Instagram)

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Arman Tsarukyan is widely regarded as one of the wealthiest fighters currently competing on the UFC roster, often associated with a lifestyle that many elite athletes spend entire careers chasing. His visibility in the luxury asset and high-end travel spaces has fueled that perception. Recently, however, the reality behind his wealth was clarified through details shared by his older brother, Artur Tsarukyan.

Tsarukyan is frequently seen traveling in luxury vehicles, staying at scenic international destinations, and dining at exclusive restaurants. Much of this financial security is attributed to his father, Nairi Tsarukyan, an Armenian business tycoon in the construction sector. Nairi’s business success, reportedly placing his net worth near the $100 million range, has played a central role in the family’s standing.

The contrast between Tsarukyan’s present lifestyle and his competitive environment was highlighted during his recent grappling match involving UFC middleweight contender Sharaputdin Magomedov. In the buildup, Magomedov referenced the stark differences in their early lives, emphasizing his own struggles. That discussion eventually led to Artur addressing misconceptions about their upbringing.

We didn’t even have wrestling shoes. Like at all, We lived in the countryside back then, in a sort of a ‘ghetto’. So when we came to the city center and saw guys with Asics wrestling shoes, it had a wow effect on us. We could also tell a lot of things about the way we used to live. But why? I think all of us went through this stage of our lives when we were younger.

Artur Tsarukyan via Red Corner MMA

According to Artur, the family’s move from Armenia to Russia was marked by instability and financial uncertainty. During that period, consistent wealth was not part of their reality, and success came only later.

The family’s circumstances changed after their father, Nairi Tsarukyan, became a recognized figure in the construction industry, turning long-term effort and risk into sustained prosperity rather than inherited comfort.

Tsarukyan’s wealth and lifestyle have also become talking points for rivals within the UFC. Opponents such as Dan Hooker referenced Tsarukyan’s perceived privileges ahead of their UFC Qatar matchup. Liverpool native Paddy Pimblett has similarly targeted the Armenian’s background during their prolonged online exchanges, using it as leverage in competitive narratives.

At present, Arman Tsarukyan is navigating a challenging phase of his career under increased scrutiny and elite competition. Despite narratives surrounding wealth and privilege, his focus remains on performance and progression. He was recently bypassed for an interim title opportunity when the UFC booked Paddy Pimblett vs. Justin Gaethje for UFC 324, leaving Tsarukyan to rebuild momentum toward a title shot.

Arman Tsarukyan talks about feeling the weight difference against Sharaputdin Magomedov

While Arman Tsarukyan has not been consistently active inside the UFC Octagon in recent months, he has remained competitive through high-level grappling events worldwide. During this stretch, he has secured notable victories over former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson, Makkasharip Zaynukov, and Bellator standout Patricky Pitbull.

Arman Tsarukyan and Sharaputdin Magomedov
Arman Tsarukyan and Sharaputdin Magomedov (via Yahoo Sports)

Arman Tsarukyan most recently competed against UFC middleweight contender Sharaputdin Magomedov in a grappling match under modified rules. The bout featured a submission-only format with a single five-minute round. It ended in a draw, underscoring the competitiveness of the matchup. The Armenian star recently highlighted the physical challenges posed by a larger middleweight opponent.

Of course you can feel the size difference. The first time I tried to throw him, he fell over me because it felt a bit unusual. But guys my weight I throw with ease, but when he fell on top of me I had to make adjustments.

Arman Tsarukyan via Red Corner MMA

The performance reinforced Tsarukyan’s ability to remain competitive against fighters from higher weight classes. His composure and technical consistency against a middleweight further underlined his grappling credentials. Arman Tsarukyan is now scheduled to face Lance Palmer on January 10 at RAF 5, continuing his run of activity as he builds momentum across multiple combat platforms.

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