Russian Influence on MMA

[Egészségére!]

"White, along with new boss Ari Emanuel, recently had a sit-down with deputy prime minister of the Russian Federation, Vitaly Mutko, to draw the blueprint for a future UFC show in Moscow." - Jesse Holland

“We’re focused very heavily on Russia right now,” White said...first of all, there’s tons of talent coming out of Russia, and a lot of fans. There’s a fighter named Khabib who’s from Russia, and he’s insanely popular. The next fight could be Conor vs. Khabib.” - bloodyelbow.com

Russia's contribution to the UFC could become as big as Brazil's in the next 10 years. If they are like Khabib and incorporate a lot of Sambo, Judo and Pankration into their style how will this affect the sport?

 

[Your Account]

Yes

 

[dsdoubled]

I think most of the best combat athletes from Russia will continue to shun MMA for wrestling/sambo/judo/boxing where they can win Olympic medals and true world championships. They get taken care of quite well when they win world level medals. However, considering the extreme wealth of talent and log jam at the top of the ranks in wrestling/judo/sambo etc, we may see some really really good athletes competing in MMA. We are seeing it already with guys like Makhov and Magomedrasul Gazimagomedov.

 

[ArtemV]

I hope some of our premier wrestlers will enter MMA, and beat NCAA champions and out wrestle them so you guys can be salty af ahahah - especially the Dirty Holt.

 

[Wariowokecancel]

UFC whoring itself to the most corrupt modern country in the world.

Also ain't shit going doing without Fedor and Purim getting their money.

 

[Wariowokecancel]

Also all you Russians, how the fuck will this affect Russians entering the UFC? They already fucking can, same as the Brazilians, Japanese, Brits, Irish and Poles.

If your fighters are scared of the UFC then they still will be despite UFC Moscow.

The UFC is looking for a market not for product

 

[congo'spython]

 

[Otto!]

Lots of money and corruption. You should be careful of who you get in bed with.