Braden Peters, widely known by his online alias Clavicular, recently offered an unconventional piece of advice to UFC fighter Arman Tsarukyan, suggesting a novel approach to securing more title opportunities in the promotion.
Tsarukyan’s last octagon appearance was at UFC Qatar in 2025, where he impressively submitted Dan Hooker. Despite this victory, he was subsequently denied a shot at the championship. Looking ahead to 2026, Tsarukyan aims to serve as a backup for the main event at UFC Freedom 250, which is set to feature a lightweight title unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. The Armenian contender has stated that details regarding his next fight will be announced after the White House card, while he remains active with engagements for RAF and HYPE FC.
During a recent promotional appearance, Tsarukyan connected with Clavicular, an influencer and streamer known for his “looksmaxxing” content. Clavicular proposed that fighters might garner more title fights if they presented a more appealing physical image, suggesting that the UFC tends to promote individuals with greater marketability.
Clavicular acknowledged Tsarukyan’s existing striking features but emphasized that there’s always room for enhancement, stating:
“You would probably be able to get more title fights, the better looking you were. So it could be worth it. Everyone can improve. Even the best-looking person in the world. So get a little better.”
Tsarukyan responded with a lighthearted jab, quipping:
“Now I’m gonna do Botox to get my title fight. That’s why they didn’t give me [a title shot], because I’m ugly.”
Why Has Arman Tsarukyan Not Received a Title Shot?
Arman Tsarukyan, a top contender in the UFC’s lightweight division, has repeatedly been overlooked for a title shot. His initial denial followed a withdrawal from UFC 311, where he was scheduled to face then-lightweight champion Islam Makhachev due to a hernia he claims forced him out at the last minute.
To mend his relationship with Dana White, Tsarukyan stepped in as a backup for UFC 317. After securing a win at UFC Qatar, he once again requested a title fight, only to be denied.
UFC President Dana White has consistently cited Tsarukyan’s controversial behavior, both inside and outside the octagon, as reasons for withholding a title opportunity. These actions include an incident where he punched a fan, headbutted Dan Hooker, and engaged in a confrontation with Georgio Poullas.
Tsarukyan has since pledged to maintain better conduct, expressing his expectation to compete for the championship before the conclusion of 2026.
