Georgio Poullas Withdraws from Tsarukyan Grappling Bout, Seeks RAF Rematch
Georgio Poullas has withdrawn from a planned submission grappling bout against Arman Tsarukyan less than a day after the matchup was announced, redirecting attention toward a potential rematch under the RAF banner. The sudden shift adds another chapter to a rivalry that has already spilled beyond competition into a heated post-fight confrontation.
According to reports confirmed by RAF officials, the grappling match had been scheduled for March 11 at Hype FC Brazil but was never finalized through a signed contract. Poullas has since signaled his intention to meet Tsarukyan again in a wrestling contest at a future RAF event.
Match announcement collapses before contracts are signed
The proposed grappling contest between Georgio Poullas and Arman Tsarukyan briefly generated buzz across the combat sports community when it was revealed earlier this week.
However, Poullas clarified during an interview that no official agreement had been executed with Hype FC Brazil. Without a signed contract, the matchup quickly unraveled, leaving promoters to reconsider how the rivalry might continue.
RAF executive Chad Bronstein later confirmed the withdrawal, noting that discussions are ongoing regarding potential future engagements involving the two fighters.
Tensions escalate after RAF 6 confrontation
The rivalry intensified following their bout at RAF 6 on February 28, where Tsarukyan secured a narrow 5–3 victory.
While the scoreline was competitive, the defining moment of the evening came after the final whistle. Video footage captured Tsarukyan shoving Poullas to the mat before appearing ready to strike, prompting officials to intervene and separate both camps.
Tsarukyan later defended his reaction, claiming the altercation was triggered by what he described as illegal or unsportsmanlike tactics during the match, including punches and slaps delivered in close exchanges.
Members of Tsarukyan’s corner also voiced complaints about Poullas’ approach during the bout.
Poullas disputes outcome and pushes for rematch
Poullas has rejected the narrative surrounding the incident and continues to challenge the result.
He has argued that a key takedown during the contest should have secured him the victory and has publicly called for another match to settle the dispute.
Rather than pursuing a grappling contest, Poullas is advocating for a traditional wrestling rematch under the RAF promotion. Such a setting, he suggests, would eliminate the rule ambiguities that fueled the original controversy.
Promotion weighs response amid heated rivalry
RAF officials expressed disappointment over the post-match scuffle but have not issued disciplinary action against either competitor.
The promotion now faces a balancing act: managing the reputational risk of unsportsmanlike conduct while recognizing that rivalries often drive viewership and engagement in combat sports.
Industry observers note that unresolved tensions can quickly transform into headline bouts if structured correctly.
What comes next for the rivalry
Whether the rematch materializes will depend on scheduling, contractual agreements, and the willingness of both fighters to meet again under a unified ruleset.
For Tsarukyan, a rematch offers an opportunity to reinforce the legitimacy of his win. For Poullas, it represents a chance to reverse a result he continues to dispute.
Given the intensity of their last encounter, any future meeting between the two is likely to attract significant attention from grappling and MMA audiences alike.
Source:MMA News