Zaur Gadzhiev attacked Eduard Vartanyan before fight, Bibulatov confirms

ACA president Magomed "Chaborz" Bibulatov has confirmed that fighter Zaur Gadzhiev, along with some of his teammates, allegedly attacked Eduard Vartanyan in the backstage area before Vartanyan was set to compete, striking him in the back of the head.

Bibulatov stated that he personally held a stern conversation with Gadzhiev following the incident. Despite the severity of the alleged assault, Gadzhiev will not face expulsion from the ACA league, according to Bibulatov's account of the situation.

The attack is said to have taken place moments before Vartanyan was scheduled to walk out and fight, raising immediate questions about fighter welfare and the security protocols in place at ACA events backstage.

Bibulatov, who carries a 14-2 professional record under the ACA banner, is a veteran of the promotion and holds significant authority over its day-to-day operations. The 37-year-old, who competes at five-foot-five and 165 centimeters with a 65-inch reach, is no stranger to the demands and discipline required in professional mixed martial arts competition.

Why it matters

• A backstage physical altercation between fighters represents a serious breach of professional conduct and raises concerns about safety protocols at ACA events.
• Gadzhiev's continued presence in the league despite the incident may draw scrutiny from fighters, managers, and observers who expect stronger disciplinary measures.
• The timing of the alleged attack, occurring just before Vartanyan was due to compete, could have directly compromised his ability to perform safely.
• The incident puts pressure on ACA leadership to clarify its standards for backstage conduct and outline what consequences, if any, will follow.