Arman Tsarukyan removed from commercial flight, switches to private jet

Arman Tsarukyan's travel plans hit an unexpected snag this week when he and his team were removed from a commercial flight ahead of a grappling tournament, forcing the lightweight contender to arrange a private jet to reach his destination.

According to the report, Tsarukyan's team ran into trouble with airline staff during the pre-departure phase, with members using their phones during takeoff and failing to stow tray tables as required. The removal prompted Tsarukyan to secure alternative transport, and the incident has since shed light on why the fighter prefers private aviation when traveling.

Tsarukyan, 29, is currently the number-one ranked lightweight contender in the UFC, carrying a record of 23 wins and 3 losses. The Russia-born fighter, who trains out of American Top Team, stands five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach and has built his reputation on a well-rounded game — averaging 3.85 significant strikes landed per minute at 50 percent accuracy, while also generating 3.26 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.

Despite the travel disruption, the episode appears to have had no impact on his competitive schedule. His grappling match against Juraya Faber at RAF 08 remains on as planned, with the bout set to take place within two days of the incident.

Why it matters

• Tsarukyan is the UFC's top-ranked lightweight, making any pre-competition disruption worth monitoring
• The RAF 08 grappling appearance confirms his activity level outside of the Octagon during what is a high-stakes period in his career
• The episode offers rare insight into the logistical side of a fighter competing at the elite level