Full Breakdown
Arman Tsarukyan Removed from American Airlines Flight Ahead of RAF 08
4/18/2026, 1:33:20 AM
Incident Overview: Flight Removal Details
Arman Tsarukyan, a prominent UFC lightweight contender, was removed from an American Airlines flight on April 16, 2026, while traveling from Los Angeles to Philadelphia for his upcoming grappling match at RAF 08 against Urijah Faber. Tsarukyan and two friends were reportedly asked to deboard due to safety violations, specifically for not complying with crew instructions to remain seated during taxiing. Initial reports suggested that Tsarukyan was removed for using his phone during takeoff, but American Airlines clarified that the removal was due to passengers standing in the aisle and not following federal regulations.
Official Statements from American Airlines
American Airlines issued a statement emphasizing that safety is their top priority and that passengers must comply with crew instructions. The airline confirmed that the flight returned to the gate at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) because the customers refused to follow these regulations. The statement read, “Safety is our top priority and we expect our customers to comply with crew member instructions while on board our aircraft.”
Tsarukyan's Reaction and Subsequent Travel Plans
Following the incident, Tsarukyan expressed his dissatisfaction on social media, labeling the airline's staff as "rude and unprofessional." He shared a video of himself boarding a private jet, humorously stating, “I hope they’re not gonna kick me off of this plane.” This quick transition to a private flight ensured that he would still arrive in Philadelphia on time for his match.
Background: Tsarukyan's Recent Controversies
Tsarukyan's recent behavior has drawn mixed reactions, particularly from UFC CEO Dana White, who has previously warned him about being a "maniac." His reputation has been marred by several incidents, including pulling out of a title fight against Islam Makhachev on the day of weigh-ins and engaging in a post-match brawl with Georgio Poullas. Despite these controversies, Tsarukyan has remained active in grappling competitions, which has helped him maintain a presence in the public eye.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about Tsarukyan's conduct, questioning whether his behavior makes him a suitable candidate for a UFC title shot. The combination of his recent flight incident and past altercations has led some to speculate about his reliability as a fighter. Observers are divided on whether his popularity can outweigh the negative perceptions stemming from these incidents.
What's Next for Tsarukyan?
Tsarukyan is set to compete at RAF 08 on April 18, 2026, against Urijah Faber. His performance in this match may influence his standing within the UFC and his prospects for a future title shot. As he continues to navigate both the grappling and MMA landscapes, the implications of his recent flight incident may linger in discussions about his career trajectory.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Got kicked off the flight,” — Arman Tsarukyan
- “Safety is our top priority and we expect our customers to comply with crew member instructions while on board our aircraft, which include staying seated while the aircraft is taxiing.” — American Airlines Statement
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges Tsarukyan faces in balancing his public persona with his professional aspirations in mixed martial arts.
