Jon Jones hails Arman Tsarukyan as 'awesome' UFC lightweight in glowing praise

Jon Jones calls Arman Tsarukyan an ‘awesome’ UFC lightweight

Jon Jones has publicly praised Arman Tsarukyan as an ‘awesome’ UFC lightweight and pledged to always support him. The 39-year-old MMA legend made the comments on The Ring Magazine’s YouTube channel after meeting Tsarukyan in person.

What Jones said about Tsarukyan

Jones described Tsarukyan as a ‘very humble’ fighter who carries himself with class. The former UFC champion also praised Tsarukyan’s brand and fighting style. “I love the way he carries himself. I love the brand that he’s created. He has an awesome fighting style,” Jones said.

He added that Tsarukyan wins with Real American Freestyle and Nina Drama. Jones also highlighted Tsarukyan’s success outside the cage. “He’s such a successful man who does not need to fight,” Jones noted. “He does it out of the goodness of martial arts and just genuinely loving it.”

Why Jones backs Tsarukyan long term

Jones said he will always be in Tsarukyan’s corner. The two have met several times, according to Jones. “I’ve got to meet him in person several times. Very humble man, and I’m always going to be in his corner,” Jones added.

Tsarukyan has won his last five fights in the UFC. His most recent victory came in 2025. He submitted Dan Hooker in the second round at UFC Fight Night 265 in Qatar.

Jones’ UFC heavyweight legacy and future

Jon Jones retired from MMA in 2025. He vacated the UFC heavyweight title before stepping away. His final octagon fight took place in 2024 at UFC 309 in New York City. Jones beat Stipe Miocic by TKO in the third round to defend the belt.

The retired champ also discussed a potential superfight with Oleksandr Usyk. The Ring Magazine has linked Jones to Usyk’s final bout. Jones has not confirmed whether he would return for that fight.