Zaur Gadzhiev and/or his teammates reportedly struck Eduard Vartanyan on the back of the head before Vartanyan's fight at an ACA event. Despite the incident, Gadzhiev will not be removed from the promotion. Magomed Bibulatov stated that he had a strict conversation with Gadzhiev about the incident. The post suggests this was a disciplinary matter but one that will not result in Gadzhiev's dismissal from the organization. No further details about potential sanctions or the context of the altercation were provided.
A pre-fight altercation at an ACA event has drawn internal disciplinary attention after Zaur Gadzhiev and/or members of his team allegedly struck Eduard Vartanyan on the back of the head before Vartanyan was scheduled to compete.
The incident, reported on April 13, 2026, prompted a response from ACA veteran Magomed Bibulatov, who confirmed he held a direct and serious conversation with Gadzhiev over the matter. Bibulatov indicated that while the situation was treated as a disciplinary issue, Gadzhiev will not be removed from the promotion as a result. No details regarding additional sanctions or the precise circumstances leading up to the altercation were made available.
Bibulatov, nicknamed "Chaborz," is a 37-year-old orthodox fighter standing five-foot-five with a 65-inch reach and a professional record of 14-2-0. The experienced competitor has demonstrated consistent output throughout his career, averaging 3.6 significant strikes landed per minute at 51 percent accuracy, while also contributing on the ground with 2.85 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- The incident raises questions about fighter safety and conduct standards within ACA ahead of and during event days
- Gadzhiev retaining his place on the roster suggests the promotion opted for internal discipline rather than contract termination
- No details have emerged about whether Vartanyan's performance or preparation was affected by the alleged strike
