Social Media points to racial bias over Khabib Nurmagomedov’s removal from plane
Incident, which unfolded at Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport, has prompted heated discussions online.
News Desk |
January 13, 2025
Khabib's removal from the plane has led to severe criticisms for Frontier Airlines.
Khabib Nurmagomedov, former UFC lightweight champion, has found himself at the center of a social media storm following his removal from a Frontier Airlines flight.
The incident, which unfolded at Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport, has prompted heated discussions online, with many questioning whether racial or national bias played a role.
The video of the incident quickly went viral, triggering a flood of reactions on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Reddit.
Nurmagomedov’s friends and fellow fighters were quick to rally behind him.
Among fighters to come to his support include Belal Muhammad, a close friend and current UFC Welterweight champion, boxer Killa Carla Jade, and current UFC fighter Michael Chandler.
Fans also had their say on the incident, with many alleging a racial bias towards the Muslim Khabib. Fans were quick to connect the incident with wider societal racism issues in the United States.
Renowned scholar Noman Ali Khan also had his say on the matter, stating on his Instagram “It seems even one of the most famous Muslims in the world couldn’t escape racial profiling in America.”
Others on X were much more critical, with one user stating “She moved you and your friend for Islamophobic reasons.”
More radical responses included calls for a boycott of Frontier Airlines. Some users also shared their decision to cancel existing ticket bookings, in response to the incident.
Nurmagomedov himself hinted at potential bias in his post, writing, “What was the base for that, racial, national, or other, I’m not sure.” This comment further fueled speculation and debate across social media.
In response to the online uproar, Frontier Airlines released a statement on express, stating “We are aware of the incident and are investigating.” Users were once again quick to criticize the decision to not include an apology alongside the statement.
As the discussion continues, many are calling for greater transparency and sensitivity in handling such situations.
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