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Tensions ahead of the grappling showdown between Arman Tsarukyan and Dillon Danis at RAF 14 boiled over into a full-scale brawl during Thursday night's pre-fight press conference.
Tsarukyan's fiery reaction was ignited by Danis' provocations. After initially trading verbal barbs in a relatively composed manner, the American chose to flaunt his choice of attire. True to his reputation for controversy, Danis showed off a custom t-shirt mocking Tsarukyan's close friend and teammate, Khamzat Chimaev.
"It says Khamzat is my bitch, and on the front is a picture of him without a beard," Danis declared.
His words provoked an instant reaction from Tsarukyan, who leapt from his seat and charged at Danis with violent intent.
The attack unleashed pandemonium on stage. Dozens of entourage members and security personnel swarmed the platform, some attempting to jump into the brawl while others fought to separate the rivals. During the chaotic scuffle, which nearly brought down the stage, RAF officials desperately struggled to restore order as both fighters traded wild strikes instead of grappling techniques.
Once order was eventually restored, the stage was cleared for the traditional face-offs, but neither Tsarukyan nor Danis re-emerged.
The two fighters are scheduled to headline RAF 14 on Friday night.
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