Arman Tsarukyan Enters UFC Qatar Walkout With Armenian Yarkhushta, a Traditional Warrior Dance

Armenian fighter Arman Tsarukyan made a powerful cultural statement ahead of his upcoming UFC Qatar fight by walking to the ring with Yarkhushta, a traditional Armenian battle dance known for its strong rhythm and historic connection to warriors. Yarkhushta is performed with loud drumbeats and fast movements, creating an intense atmosphere meant to raise strength and spirit before a fight. For centuries, Armenian soldiers used this dance to build unity and courage before entering battle, and today it remains a symbol of national identity and resilience.

Tsarukyan, who represents Armenia and is ranked No. 2 in the UFC lightweight division, also spoke about his upcoming clash with Dan Hooker of New Zealand, who is ranked No. 6 in the same weight class.

“Hooker is as ridiculous as the thoughts he expresses. You could call this a title contender’s fight. I don’t think Hooker has any chance. I don’t see it,” Tsarukyan said.

The fight is underway right now — on November 22 in Doha, where UFC Qatar is taking place.

Tsarukyan, 28, enters this event after an important victory over Charles Oliveira of Brazil on April 13 in Las Vegas. That win solidified his position as one of the top contenders in the lightweight division.

Hooker, 35, last fought on August 17, 2024, in Australia, where he defeated Mateusz Gamrot of Poland.

Tsarukyan’s decision to walk out with Yarkhushta shows his roots and brings Armenian cultural heritage to the global UFC stage, setting the tone for one of the most anticipated lightweight fights of the year.

—

Support independent reporting from the region by subscribing to The Armenian Report. Our team is funded solely by readers like you.