The world of combat sports is no stranger to high-stakes drama, but a $40,000 livestream bet has now spilled over into a public feud. UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has called out boxing star Ryan Garcia for allegedly failing to settle a wager, and he's hinting at bringing in a formidable ally: Khamzat Chimaev.
The dispute stems from a recent livestream where Garcia, the WBC welterweight champion, took on a challenge involving Tsarukyan's friend, boxer Rafayel Simonyan. Garcia reportedly lost the bet and was seen on camera handing over stacks of cash. However, the story took a turn when Tsarukyan revealed Garcia's team asked for the money back to "verify the amount" and never returned it.
"He gave me his word of honour that he will send it to the bank," Tsarukyan told journalist Adam Zubayraev. "It’s been 5 days, he hasn’t even asked for my bank information yet." Frustrated by the delay, Tsarukyan issued a clear warning: "Me and Khamzat will talk to Ryan Garcia. He’s not paying his $40,000 bet."
This isn't Tsarukyan's first foray into major wagers, showcasing a fighter's confidence that extends beyond the octagon. He recently placed a $10,000 bet ahead of a wrestling rematch and even attempted to broker a massive $1 million stake on a potential fight between Chimaev and Sean Strickland through streamer Adin Ross. This pattern makes the unresolved Garcia bet a notable blemish on his winning record in high-stakes side action.
For now, the ball is in Ryan Garcia's court. Will the boxing champion wire the funds and settle the score, or will this livestream bet escalate into a much bigger confrontation with two of the UFC's most feared fighters? The combat sports world is watching.
