Zaur Gadzhiev involved in pre-fight incident with Eduard Vartanyan

A pre-fight altercation involving Zaur Gadzhiev and Eduard Vartanyan has drawn attention to questions of fighter conduct and team discipline, according to a report dated April 13, 2026.

Gadzhiev, or members of his team, are alleged to have struck Vartanyan on the back of the head before Vartanyan was set to compete. Despite the seriousness of the allegation, Gadzhiev will not be expelled from the league, per the report. No further details about the precise circumstances of the incident or any additional punishment have been disclosed.

Team captain Magomed Bibulatov addressed the matter directly, stating he held a strict conversation with Gadzhiev in the aftermath. Bibulatov, known by his nickname Chaborz, carries a professional record of 14 wins and 2 losses and is 37 years old. The orthodox-stance fighter stands five-foot-five and competes with a 65-inch reach. He averages 3.6 significant strikes landed per minute at 51 percent striking accuracy, and adds nearly three takedowns per 15 minutes to his game, underlining his well-rounded approach inside the cage.

Why it matters

• A physical altercation before a scheduled bout raises serious questions about the standard of conduct expected from fighters and their corners.
• Gadzhiev avoiding expulsion despite the allegations may invite scrutiny over how the league enforces its disciplinary policies.
• Team captain Bibulatov's involvement signals internal accountability measures are in play, though the outcome of any formal review remains unclear.
• The incident could affect team cohesion and individual reputations heading into future competition.