Arman Tsarukyan and his team were removed from a commercial airline flight due to violations of airline rules, specifically using phones during takeoff and not stowing their tray tables. The incident occurred while traveling to a grappling tournament. Following the removal, Tsarukyan and his team switched to a private jet to ensure they could still make the event. His grappling match against Juraj Faber at RAF 08 remains scheduled and will take place in two days as planned. The post humorously notes this explains why Tsarukyan prefers private jets.
Arman Tsarukyan's travel plans hit an unexpected snag ahead of RAF 08, after the UFC lightweight contender and his team were removed from a commercial flight for failing to follow airline rules — specifically using their phones during takeoff and leaving tray tables unfolded. The group quickly arranged a private jet to ensure they arrived in time for the grappling event, and Tsarukyan's scheduled match against Juraj Faber remains on track.
Tsarukyan, 29, currently sits ranked first in the UFC lightweight division with a professional record of 23-3-0. The Russian fighter, who trains out of American Top Team, is one of the most well-rounded threats at 155 pounds. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, he averages 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy and adds consistent wrestling pressure at 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes. He is competing here in a grappling format, which suits a fighter whose ground game is a legitimate weapon.
The incident drew some light-hearted attention online, with the situation being used to explain, tongue firmly in cheek, why a fighter of Tsarukyan's profile might prefer the flexibility of private air travel.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the top-ranked UFC lightweight, making any public appearance or competition an event worth tracking.
- His grappling match against Juraj Faber at RAF 08 proceeds as scheduled despite the travel disruption.
- The episode offers a rare glimpse at the logistical realities elite fighters navigate outside of octagon preparation.
