Khamzat Chimaev was seen smiling while watching Arman Tsarukyan’s chaotic brawl at Real American Freestyle 6.
The reaction surfaced in a video clip following Tsarukyan’s co-main event match against Georgio Poullas at Mullet Arena in Tempe, Arizona. The footage quickly gained traction among MMA fans.
Tsarukyan secured a 5-3 points victory over Poullas in a match that had already been physical throughout. However, the closing moments escalated into a full-scale altercation.
Khamzat Chimaev seen smiling watching Arman Tsarukyan brawl
As chaos unfolded on the mat, Chimaev was captured on video smiling while watching the confrontation. The clip circulated online shortly after the incident, prompting widespread reaction from fans.
The middleweight champion has previously shown public support for Tsarukyan, including helping him through a difficult weight cut ahead of UFC Qatar.
Chimaev has also dealt with his own intense moments inside and outside competition, including well-documented weight-cutting struggles earlier in his career.
Their relationship has been visible in multiple training and fight-week settings. His visible reaction during the RAF 6 melee added another layer to the spectacle.
Late punch sparks RAF 6 melee
With Tsarukyan leading 5-3, Poullas attempted a last-second takedown as time expired in the third period. Tsarukyan defended the shot and then threw a punch while on top after the clock had run out.
The strike immediately triggered both teams to rush the mat, with more than a dozen individuals entering the competition area. Spectators looked on as officials and staff worked to restore order.
Former UFC interim title challenger Colby Covington escorted Poullas backstage once the situation calmed. Although Tsarukyan was declared the winner, the post-match brawl became the defining image of the night.