Arman Tsarukyan and his team were removed from a commercial flight due to violations of airline rules. The issues involved team members using phones during takeoff and not stowing their tray tables properly. Following the removal, Tsarukyan had to arrange a private jet to continue traveling to his competition. Despite the travel disruption, his grappling match against Juraya Feiber at RAF 08 remains scheduled and will proceed as planned in two days. The post humorously notes this explains why Tsarukyan prefers private jets, as they allow phone use during takeoff and more flexibility with tray tables.
Arman Tsarukyan's travel to RAF 08 took an unexpected turn when he and his team were removed from a commercial flight after members of his party violated airline rules — specifically by using their phones during takeoff and failing to stow tray tables properly. Tsarukyan was forced to arrange a private jet to complete the journey, though his grappling match against Juraya Feiber remains on schedule and will proceed as planned.
The 29-year-old Russian is currently ranked number one in the UFC lightweight division, carrying a record of 23-3-0 under the banner of American Top Team. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, Tsarukyan has built his reputation as one of the most well-rounded fighters in the 155-pound class, averaging 3.85 significant strikes landed per minute at 50 percent accuracy while also posting an impressive 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes. He competes out of an orthodox stance.
The travel chaos drew a humorous footnote: the situation, as noted, neatly explains why Tsarukyan reportedly favors private aviation — where phone use during takeoff and tray table flexibility are not subject to the same enforcement.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the top-ranked lightweight contender, making any pre-fight disruption noteworthy heading into competition
- The grappling bout with Juraya Feiber at RAF 08 remains confirmed despite the logistical setback
- The incident adds an unusual chapter to the pre-event buildup for one of the division's most prominent figures
