Russian UFC Legend Khabib Nurmagomedov ‘Deplaned’ Over Seat Dispute in Las Vegas
Mixed martial arts icon and former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was removed from a Frontier Airlines flight at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas following a seating dispute with airline staff.
Viral Video of Confrontation
A video shared on social media shows airline staff requesting that Nurmagomedov move from his seat near the emergency exit, citing discomfort among other passengers. A flight attendant can be heard stating:
“We cannot allow you to sit in the exit row. I’ll go call a supervisor. You can either take a different seat or we can escort you off the plane.”
Nurmagomedov, visibly frustrated, responded:
“It’s not fair.”
He added that he complied during check-in and confirmed his English proficiency but was still asked to leave the seat.
Claims of Discrimination
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Nurmagomedov questioned whether the incident stemmed from racial or national discrimination, criticizing a flight attendant for being “very rude from the beginning.” He noted that despite agreeing to assist, security was called within two minutes, resulting in his removal from the flight.
“What was the base for that — racial, national, or other — I’m not sure,” Nurmagomedov remarked.
Clarifications and Airline Response Pending
Initial reports incorrectly identified the airline as Alaska Airlines, but Nurmagomedov clarified it was Frontier Airlines. He did not specify the date of the incident. Frontier Airlines has yet to issue a public statement addressing the matter.
Public Reaction
The video sparked debate online, with some users condemning the treatment of the retired UFC star, while others cited safety protocols for seating in emergency rows. Nurmagomedov remains one of MMA’s most prominent figures, boasting an undefeated 29-0 record before retiring in 2020.
