Zaur Gadzhiev and/or members of his team allegedly slapped Eduard Vartanyan on the back of the head before a fight at an ACA event. Despite the incident, reports indicate that Gadzhiev will not be expelled from the league. ACA official Magomed Bibulatov stated he had a stern conversation with Gadzhiev about the matter. The incident adds to concerns about pre-fight conduct and fighter behavior at ACA events. Limited details are available about potential disciplinary actions beyond the reported conversation with league officials.
A physical altercation allegedly involving Zaur Gadzhiev and members of his team preceded a bout at an ACA event, with reports indicating Gadzhiev or his corner struck Eduard Vartanyan on the back of the head before the fight took place.
Despite the seriousness of the alleged incident, reports suggest Gadzhiev will not face expulsion from the promotion. ACA official Magomed Bibulatov, known as "Chaborz," addressed the matter directly, stating he held a stern conversation with Gadzhiev regarding the conduct. Bibulatov is a veteran presence within the organization, carrying a professional record of 14 wins and 2 losses at 37 years of age. The orthodox striker stands five-foot-five with a 65-inch reach and has demonstrated a well-rounded offensive game, averaging 3.6 significant strikes landed per minute at 51 percent accuracy while also contributing on the ground with 2.85 takedown attempts per fifteen minutes.
Beyond the reported conversation with league officials, limited details have emerged about any further disciplinary measures that Gadzhiev or his team may face.
Why it matters
- Pre-fight aggression directed at an opponent raises serious questions about fighter conduct and event safety protocols at ACA
- The decision not to expel Gadzhiev may draw scrutiny over how the promotion enforces its code of conduct
- The incident places Bibulatov in a visible league-authority role, highlighting the organizational structure within ACA
