With a perfect five-fight streak in 2023, featherweight standout Isaac Dulgarian first caught UFC CEO Dana White’s attention through his FAC Championship, ultimately securing a contract with MMA’s top promotion. Despite his early promise, ‘The Midwest Choppa,’ with just three professional bouts under his belt, parted ways with the UFC last year after posting a 2-1 record. However, rather than joining another organization, he continued working hard to earn his way back.

Then, in August, Isaac Dulgarian re-signed with the UFC and is now set to make his return at UFC Vegas 110, just a few hours away. He will take on Yadir Del Valle on the main card in a highly anticipated featherweight clash. Although born and fighting out of the United States, much about the American star remains a mystery, including his name, appearance, ethnicity, and background. To satisfy that curiosity, we decided to dig a little deeper into Dulgarian’s roots.

Isaac Dulgarian’s Armenian heritage 

In his UFC debut, Isaac Dulgarian announced himself with authority, finishing Francis Marshall with a decisive elbow. However, Christian Rodriguez then ended Dulgarian’s winning streak in his second UFC fight, handing him the first defeat of his career. Throughout his career, ‘The Midwest Choppa’ has enjoyed strong support from Armenian fans, often reflected on his social media. Speaking to Armenian Sports News about his heritage when asked, “Whenever you post on social media, Armenians comment with support. Can you tell us about your Armenian heritage and family history?”

Isaac Dulgarian replied, “I don’t know a whole lot because most of my Armenian relatives have passed away, but my grandpa was Armenian. From what I’ve been told, during the Armenian Genocide, my family fled to a town close to Armenia, then eventually came to Ellis Island in New York and settled there. My great-uncle, Corky Bulgarian, was a Golden Gloves boxer.”

“Later, my grandparents moved to the Midwest. I feel it in my blood.” The account Isaac Dulgarian shared above sheds light on his mother’s Armenian heritage, yet it reveals only part of his family’s history.

Isaac Dulgarian’s mixed ethnicity & parents

In the same interview, when asked further about his family background, Isaac Dulgarian revealed that his heritage is a blend of Armenian roots from his mother’s side and African-American ancestry from his father’s. Still, inside the octagon, ‘The Midwest Choppa’ proudly carries the Armenian flag.

When asked about it, the American fighter said, “I love my Armenian fans. They recognize my last name everywhere. I see Armenians doing amazing in the UFC, and I feel like we’re bringing light to our country. I resonate with the underdog mentality; Armenians have always faced challenges, and I carry that same spirit in my MMA career.” Isaac Dulgarian’s affection for Armenia runs deep, matched by the unwavering support of fans who stand by him through every “win or loss.”

Ultimately, Isaac Dulgarian shared, “It makes me continue fighting for my family, for my people, for Kansas City, for Armenia, for everybody that supports me.” Backed by his fans and community, Kansas native Isaac Dulgarian is set to make his long-awaited return to the Octagon after more than a year away. Do you believe the Armenian-American standout can make a lasting impact this time? Share your thoughts below.