In Russia and the former USSR, the extreme combat sport MMA has become a social phenomenon. The champions are superstars, adulated by their fans and paid fortunes. More than a sport, MMA is a social elevator, a political tool and even an instrument of propaganda glorifying the Russian man: virile, invicible and ready to defend the fatherland.
Mixing politics and MMA is a specialty of this region. Ramzan Kadyrov, Chechnya’s ultra-authoritarian leader, uses it as political weapon to enhance the region’s image, as well as his own reputation. He has launched MMA clubs all over Chechnya, developed his own professional league and built up a team of champions who fight under his colors.
In Russia, MMA can lead to anything, even to political power. President Putin rarely misses an opportunity to show off his black belt in Judo. In Krasnogorsk, the town’s Deputy Mayor, is something of a political anomaly. Jeff Monson is American, knows nothing about running a town, and doesn’t speak a word of Russian. He has, however a former MMA star, and his path was smoothed by Vladimar Putin.
This documentary was produced by Nova Prod and directed by Ibar Aibar. It was first released in 2020.
——-
Bear witness to monumental moments in human history, and human’s most terrible crimes. Java Witness is home to incredible stories of good and evil, from fascinating stories of old, to chilling documents of heinous murders and modern-day mafias and gangs.
From dinosaurs to medieval feasts, ancient wars and battles, through Kings and Queens, World Wars and critical world events, watch some of the best history documentary series, world history specials and more, all for FREE!
Hit SUBSCRIBE and enable the bell notifications to know first about all new documentaries on the channel! At least 2 FULL documentaries available to watch FREE online every week!
Subscribe to our Discover channel for more documentaries: https://www.youtube.com/c/JavaFilms/
