Arman Tsarukyan and two members of his team were removed from an American Airlines flight for violating airline rules—specifically using a phone during takeoff and having a tray table down. Tsarukyan was traveling to Philadelphia for his scheduled fight at RAF this Saturday. Rather than miss the event, he quickly arranged a private jet and successfully reached the venue. The incident highlights the strict enforcement of airline safety regulations, even for professional athletes with upcoming competitions.
Arman Tsarukyan's travel plans hit an unexpected detour this week when the lightweight contender and two members of his team were removed from an American Airlines flight en route to Philadelphia, where he is scheduled to compete at RAF this Saturday.
According to reports, Tsarukyan was removed from the flight for violating airline safety rules — specifically using his phone during takeoff and failing to have his tray table in the upright position. Rather than let the incident derail his fight week, the 29-year-old quickly arranged private air travel and successfully made it to the venue.
Tsarukyan, who represents Russia and trains out of American Top Team, is currently ranked number one in the UFC lightweight division with a professional record of 23-3-0. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, the orthodox fighter known as "Ahalkalakets" has built a reputation as one of the most well-rounded threats in the 155-pound weight class. He averages 3.85 significant strikes landed per minute at 50 percent accuracy, and his wrestling is equally dangerous — he puts up 3.26 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the top-ranked lightweight contender, meaning any disruption to his preparation ahead of a scheduled bout carries significant divisional implications.
- Despite the removal from the commercial flight, his quick pivot to a private jet appears to have kept his fight week on track.
- The incident serves as a reminder that standard airline regulations apply uniformly, regardless of a passenger's professional status or competitive obligations.
