Zaur Gadzhiev and potentially his teammates were involved in an altercation with Eduard Vartanyan before Vartanyan's fight, striking him on the back of the head. Despite the incident, Gadzhiev will not be removed from the promotion. Magomed Babulatov stated that he had a stern conversation with Gadzhiev about the matter. The post provides limited details about the circumstances of the altercation or any potential consequences beyond the conversation with Babulatov.
A backstage altercation involving Zaur Gadzhiev and Eduard Vartanyan has come to light, with reports indicating that Gadzhiev — and potentially members of his team — struck Vartanyan in the back of the head before Vartanyan was set to compete.
The incident has drawn attention from promotion management. Magomed Babulatov confirmed he addressed the matter directly with Gadzhiev, describing it as a stern conversation. Despite the seriousness of the altercation, Babulatov indicated that Gadzhiev will not be removed from the promotion as a result.
Why it matters
- A pre-fight backstage altercation raises immediate questions about fighter safety and the conduct expected of athletes and their corners behind the scenes.
- The decision to retain Gadzhiev signals the promotion is handling the matter internally rather than through formal disciplinary removal.
- The involvement of potential teammates adds a layer of concern around team conduct and organizational accountability.
Full details surrounding the circumstances that led to the confrontation remain scarce, and it is unclear whether any further consequences beyond Babulatov's conversation are being considered. The timing of the incident — occurring before Vartanyan stepped into competition — makes it a particularly sensitive matter given the physical demands and focus required of a fighter in those final moments before a bout.
