Arman Tsarukyan and his team were removed from a commercial airline flight due to violations of airline rules, specifically for using phones during takeoff and not stowing tray tables. The lightweight contender was traveling to compete at a grappling tournament. Following the removal, Tsarukyan arranged alternative transportation via private jet to ensure he could still make his commitment. His scheduled match against Juraja Faber at RAF 08 remains confirmed and will take place as planned in two days. The incident provides context for why Tsarukyan prefers private jet travel, as those aircraft have more relaxed rules regarding phone use and tray tables during takeoff.
Arman Tsarukyan's travel plans hit an unexpected snag this week when he and his team were removed from a commercial flight after reportedly violating airline rules — using phones during takeoff and failing to stow tray tables. The UFC lightweight contender was en route to compete at RAF 08, a grappling tournament, when the incident occurred. Tsarukyan quickly arranged a private jet to ensure he arrived in time, and his scheduled match against Juraja Faber at the event remains on and will take place as planned.
The 29-year-old Russian, who trains out of American Top Team, currently sits at number one in the UFC lightweight rankings with a professional MMA record of 23-3-0. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, Tsarukyan is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the division, landing 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy while also averaging 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes. His commitment to competing at a grappling tournament during an active fight camp period underlines his drive to stay sharp across all disciplines.
The removal from the commercial flight inadvertently explains something Tsarukyan apparently appreciates about private jet travel: the more relaxed policies around phone use and tray table positions during takeoff. With alternative transportation secured, the incident amounted to little more than a detour rather than a derailment.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan, the top-ranked lightweight contender, remains committed to his RAF 08 appearance despite the travel disruption
- His willingness to compete in grappling tournaments reflects a broader effort to sharpen submission and wrestling skills, areas where his numbers already stand out
- The episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the logistical demands fighters face when balancing MMA camps with outside competition commitments
