Arman Tsarukyan was removed from a commercial airline flight along with his team due to violations of airline rules, including phone use during takeoff and an open tray table. The fighter was traveling to compete at an upcoming grappling tournament. Following the ejection, Tsarukyan arranged a private jet to reach his destination. Despite the travel disruption, his match against Juraj Faber at RAF 08 remains scheduled and will take place the day after tomorrow. The incident occurred as Arman was heading to another wrestling event.
Arman Tsarukyan's journey to RAF 08 hit an unexpected snag when the lightweight contender and his team were removed from a commercial flight for breaching airline rules. According to reports, the violations included using a phone during takeoff and leaving a tray table open. Tsarukyan responded by arranging a private jet to reach his destination, and his scheduled grappling match against Juraj Faber at RAF 08 is set to go ahead as planned, two days out from the incident.
Tsarukyan, 29, represents Russia and trains out of American Top Team. The southpaw-turned-orthodox striker holds a 23-3-0 professional MMA record and currently sits at number one in the UFC lightweight division. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, he is one of the most complete fighters in the 155-pound class, averaging 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy while also posing a consistent grappling threat at 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes. Known by his nickname "Ahalkalakets," Tsarukyan has established himself as the top contender in one of the UFC's deepest divisions.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the number-one ranked lightweight, making any public incident involving him a story of note within the MMA community
- The travel disruption tested his preparation ahead of a grappling competition, though he secured alternative transport to ensure his appearance at RAF 08
- His match against Juraj Faber represents a high-profile grappling contest that remains on schedule despite the chaotic lead-up
