Training camps for elite mixed martial artists are environments of controlled chaos, precision, and immense power. However, a recent incident involving top UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan served as a rather dramatic, and slightly humorous, reminder that sometimes, the `controlled` aspect requires diligent attention to detail – specifically, keeping the doors shut.
During a routine pad work session, video footage captured Tsarukyan executing a spinning back kick. This technique, known for its potential to generate significant rotational force and impact, typically targets an opponent`s body or head. In this particular instance, the intended target was presumably the pad held by his coach. The actual trajectory, however, aligned perfectly with an open cage door.
The result was swift and unequivocal. Instead of absorbing the full force of the kick, the coach, propelled by the momentum, was sent flying backward through the gap where a closed door should have been. He landed outside the cage, demonstrating an unscheduled and perhaps unwelcome disembarkment from the training area.
Tsarukyan`s immediate reaction, visible in the footage, was one of surprise, throwing his hands up in a gesture that conveyed disbelief, followed quickly by concern as he moved to check on his coach. His subsequent comment, shared online, was pointedly directed at the preventable nature of the incident: a plea for someone, anyone, to ensure the cage door remains secured during such high-energy activities.
While thankfully appearing relatively unharmed, the coach`s impromptu exit highlights a fundamental principle of combat sports training: safety protocols, no matter how seemingly trivial, are critical. The difference between a powerful technique being absorbed safely and resulting in an accidental launch often hinges on basic structural integrity – or in this case, the lack thereof due to an open gate.
This slightly bizarre training mishap adds another peculiar chapter to what has been a notably unpredictable year for Tsarukyan. His 2025 started with the disappointment of a back injury forcing him out of a highly anticipated title fight. He then served as a backup fighter at a subsequent event, ready to step in if needed, but ultimately remained on the sidelines. While waiting for news on his next official bout, this training incident, sending his coach unexpectedly airborne, injects a moment of involuntary physical comedy into his demanding preparation schedule. One might almost consider it a metaphor for the twists and turns of his recent career path, though hopefully with less physical impact for all involved.
Ultimately, the incident serves as a memorable, if slightly alarming, anecdote from the world of MMA training – a testament to both the power of the athletes and the indispensable role of vigilant safety practices. And perhaps, a reminder to double-check the latches.