Arman Tsarukyan was removed from a commercial airline flight along with his team due to violations of airline rules, specifically using a phone during takeoff and reclining a tray table. The incident occurred while traveling to his upcoming wrestling tournament. After being removed from the commercial flight, Tsarukyan arranged a private jet to ensure he would make it to the event on time. His bout against Juraj Faber at RAF 8 is still scheduled and will take place in two days. The situation explains why Tsarukyan may prefer private aviation for travel.
Arman Tsarukyan and his team were removed from a commercial flight ahead of his appearance at RAF 8, forcing the lightweight contender to charter a private jet to reach the event on time.
Tsarukyan, ranked first in the UFC lightweight division, was ejected after members of his group violated airline rules during takeoff — specifically using a phone and reclining a tray table. Despite the disruption, the 29-year-old Russian secured alternative travel and his scheduled bout against Juraj Faber at RAF 8 remains on as planned, two days out from the incident.
The Armenia-born fighter, who now competes out of American Top Team, carries a record of 23-3-0 at lightweight. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, Tsarukyan is one of the division's most well-rounded threats, averaging 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy while also pressing opponents on the mat with 3.26 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the No. 1 ranked lightweight, making any hiccup ahead of a competitive outing noteworthy
- The travel disruption tested his pre-fight preparation, though he resolved the situation quickly with a private charter
- His upcoming wrestling tournament bout against Faber proceeds on schedule despite the airline incident
