Arman Tsarukyan was removed from a flight in the United States due to his training partners' behavior during takeoff. The UFC lightweight contender and his team were ejected from the aircraft because his teammates were using their phones and failed to stow their tray tables when instructed during the departure process. The incident highlights the strict enforcement of aviation safety regulations in the United States. No further details were provided about whether Tsarukyan was able to arrange alternative travel.
Arman Tsarukyan found himself grounded in the United States on April 17 after he and his team were removed from a commercial flight when his training partners failed to comply with standard pre-departure safety instructions.
According to reports, members of Tsarukyan's traveling party continued using their phones and did not stow their tray tables when instructed by crew during the departure process. Tsarukyan himself was ejected from the aircraft alongside his teammates as a result. It remains unclear whether the group was able to secure alternative travel arrangements.
Tsarukyan, 29, is currently the number-one ranked lightweight contender in the UFC, representing Russia and training out of American Top Team. He carries a professional record of 23 wins and 3 losses and has established himself as one of the most well-rounded fighters in the 155-pound division. The southpaw-pressuring orthodox striker lands 3.85 significant strikes per minute at a 50 percent accuracy rate and supplements his standup with an active wrestling game, averaging 3.26 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan sits at the top of the lightweight rankings, meaning any disruption to his training or travel schedule carries real divisional weight
- American Top Team operates out of Florida, so transatlantic or domestic travel is a routine part of his camp logistics
- The incident underscores how strictly United States aviation authorities enforce in-cabin safety compliance, regardless of a passenger's profile
