Arman Tsarukyan Let N3on Corner Him for Free After Dropping $250K Price Tag

Top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan delivered one of the slickest highlights at UFC 331, flattening Mauricio Ruffy with a brutal first-round elbow knockout at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Improving his professional record to 24-3, Tsarukyan solidified his position near the top of the division. But outside of his highlight-reel finish, fight fans were fascinated by his corner team, which featured controversial Kick streamer N3on.

Friendship Over Finances

Leading into fight week, rumors swirled that N3on was dropping an eye-watering $250,000 for the privilege of walking out with Tsarukyan and sitting in his corner. However, speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show after his victory, Tsarukyan cleared up the financial speculation and revealed that the 21-year-old creator got the spot completely free of charge.

Tsarukyan admitted that while he initially floated the quarter-million-dollar price tag, he quickly realized it was not realistic for his young friend. Instead of turning the streamer away or pressing for cash, the top contender chose friendship and loyalty over a heavy payday.

"I wanted to get $250K, but he doesn't have money," Tsarukyan said. "We are friends. It's not all about money... He's 21. Take from him $250K is unfair."

The unexpected partnership actually paid dividends inside the cage. Tsarukyan hilariously credited N3on post-fight for shouting out the elbow combination that set up the TKO finish with just four seconds remaining in the opening round.

While UFC CEO Dana White generally prefers fighters to avoid "extracurriculars" during their walkouts, Tsarukyan proved that bringing a viral personality along did not distract him from handling business. In a sport where fight week is often driven by purse sizes and sponsorship deals, Tsarukyan showed that some bonds are worth far more than a quick cash grab.