Arman Tsarukyan and his team were removed from a commercial flight due to violations of airline rules, specifically using phones during takeoff and not stowing tray tables. Tsarukyan was traveling to a grappling tournament and had to arrange a private jet instead. Despite the travel disruption, his match against Juraya Faber at RAF 08 remains scheduled and will take place in two days. The post humorously noted this explains why Tsarukyan prefers private jets where such rules don't apply. The incident highlights the strict enforcement of safety protocols on commercial airlines.
Arman Tsarukyan's journey to RAF 08 hit an unexpected snag when the lightweight contender and his team were removed from a commercial flight after violating airline safety protocols, including using phones during takeoff and failing to stow tray tables. With the disruption threatening his travel schedule, Tsarukyan arranged a private jet to reach the grappling tournament in time for his match against Juraya Faber, which remains on schedule and is set to take place within two days of the incident.
Tsarukyan, 29, is the number-one ranked lightweight in the UFC and carries a professional MMA record of 23-3-0, competing out of American Top Team. The Russian-born fighter stands five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach and brings well-rounded pressure to his bouts, averaging 3.85 significant strikes landed per minute at a 50 percent striking accuracy clip. His grappling credentials are equally notable, with 3.26 takedown attempts per 15 minutes underlining the all-around threat he poses in competition.
The incident drew some humor from those in Tsarukyan's camp, with the situation framed as an explanation for why the fighter generally prefers private travel, where the stricter protocols of commercial airlines are not a factor.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the UFC's top-ranked lightweight, making any disruption to his preparation a noteworthy story for the division
- Despite the travel setback, his RAF 08 grappling appearance against Juraya Faber remains confirmed
- The episode underscores the logistical demands elite fighters navigate when competing across multiple combat sports platforms
