Arman Tsarukyan, a rising star in mixed martial arts, has gained significant bargaining power with the UFC, according to his teammate Pat Downey. Downey expressed disappointment about not facing a high-profile opponent at RAF 10 in St. Louis, Missouri, but remains excited to share the card with notable UFC fighters. Tsarukyan, who has competed five times this year, is set to face Tony Ferguson on June 13, a fight that Downey believes showcases Tsarukyan's remarkable momentum away from the Octagon. Downey noted that Tsarukyan is no longer in a weak negotiating position with the UFC, stating, "Now he’s totally flipped the script." He emphasized that the UFC may have to plead with Tsarukyan to return, as he is reportedly making more money outside the organization. Additionally, Tsarukyan's recent $1 million bet on Justin Gaethje to upset Ilia Topuria has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding the UFC's betting regulations for its fighters. As Tsarukyan continues to build his profile, his future with the UFC remains a topic of interest.