Colby Covington wants to teach Arman Tsarukyan a lesson: ‘I plan on dunking him and giving him a wedgie’

Colby Covington is set to face Arman Tsarukyan in the main event at RAF 11 in Milwaukee on July 18, a matchup Covington pursued aggressively enough to step away from the UFC. The American wrestler defeated former UFC champion Chris Weidman in a 5-4 decision at RAF 9 to secure the showdown with the top-ranked UFC lightweight.

Covington's motivation extends beyond the prestige of the bout. He has publicly criticized Tsarukyan's conduct since joining the RAF roster, citing unprofessional behavior including a post-fight punch against Georgio Poullas that sparked a brawl, an incident where Tsarukyan threw UFC legend Urijah Faber off the stage, and general disrespect toward wrestling culture. At the RAF 9 post-match press conference, Covington vowed to "teach him a lesson" and "set him straight," using colorful language to emphasize his disdain for what he views as Tsarukyan's arrogant behavior.

Tsarukyan has compiled an undefeated record in RAF against largely overmatched opponents, including wins over Faber and Lance Palmer—both significantly smaller competitors—and a recent technical fall victory over social media influencer Mugzy. Covington is confident he will represent a different class of competition entirely. Despite giving up significant size to Weidman in their encounter, Covington emerged victorious and now eyes ending Tsarukyan's winning streak on the mat in Milwaukee. The confrontation promises to be the stiffest test Tsarukyan has faced in professional wrestling.