Arman Tsarukyan was removed from a commercial airline flight along with his team due to violations of airline regulations, specifically using a phone during takeoff and having a tray table down. The incident occurred as he was traveling to compete at an upcoming wrestling tournament. After being removed from the American Airlines flight, Tsarukyan quickly secured a private jet to ensure he would make it to the event on time. His match against Juraja Feiber at RAF 08 remains scheduled and will take place in two days as planned.
Lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan found himself in an unexpected scramble ahead of RAF 08 after being removed from a commercial American Airlines flight along with his team, forcing him to secure alternative travel arrangements to reach the event on time.
Tsarukyan, known by the nickname "Ahalkalakets," was escorted off the flight following violations of airline regulations — specifically using his phone during takeoff and having his tray table down at an improper time. Rather than let the disruption derail his preparation, the 29-year-old Russian quickly arranged a private jet to ensure he would arrive ahead of his scheduled bout. His match against Juraja Feiber at RAF 08 remains on as planned, with the fight set to take place in two days.
The ranked number-one lightweight contender out of American Top Team enters the event in strong form on paper. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, Tsarukyan carries a professional record of 23-3-0 and brings a well-rounded offensive game to the mat. He lands 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy and adds consistent wrestling pressure, averaging 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan holds the number-one ranking in the lightweight division, making this appearance carry significant divisional weight.
- Any late travel disruption could affect preparation and rest ahead of a competitive matchup.
- Despite the chaos, his camp moved swiftly to resolve the situation, and the bout against Feiber proceeds as scheduled.
