Top UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan humorously reacted online to being removed from an American Airlines flight. The incident occurred when the Armenian fighter and two teammates were reportedly asked to deboard the plane for using their phones during takeoff and for other unspecified reasons, while en route to Philadelphia for RAF 08.
Following the deplaning, Tsarukyan opted for a private jet to reach Philadelphia in style. In a lighthearted moment captured on video, he jokingly told Nina-Marie Daniele to complete 10 push-ups, otherwise, he would send her to American Airlines. Tsarukyan shared this clip on his Instagram with the caption: “10 push-ups or she goes to American Airlines ✈😂 @ninamariedaniele”.
American Airlines Issues Statement on Tsarukyan Incident
New footage has emerged showing Arman Tsarukyan in a verbal exchange with a flight attendant as he recorded a video prior to his removal from the flight. In response to the situation, American Airlines released an official statement clarifying their actions:
“On April 16, American Airlines flight 513 returned to the gate at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for customers who refused to follow federal regulations. 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.”
A statement from American Airlines indicated that Arman Tsarukyan and his companions were standing in the aisle while the plane was taxiing and disregarded instructions to return to their seats. The crew made the decision to remove them after attempts to get them seated failed.
Tsarukyan is scheduled to return to Real American Freestyle this weekend to compete against UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber.
