The World Martial Arts Video

Two fighters face-to-face in a ring is common sight in combat sports. But what’s less usual is seeing two seven-year-olds settling scores in a mixed martial arts tournament. Dmitry Zarshchikov, vice-president, Russian Pankration Federation, speaking Russian: “When it comes to youngsters, safety is vital. In this tournament, in particular they use special outfits. Plus we have strict rules, so opponents can't cause each other any serious injury. However, these are full contact bouts. Besides, the coach's role in this respect just cannot be overrated. The better he prepares his charge, I mean, as an ultimate fighter with both wrestling and hand-to-hand fighting skills, the more he succeeds in the sport. Kids are first taught basic skills and techniques, along with general fitness training. All this is a must before starting a potentially professional career in later life.” Danila, pankration martial artist speaking Russian: “Once I saw some guys train in my school basemen...

The Russian team clinches a resounding victory at the World Kudo Cup in Moscow. Fighters from 30 countries came to Moscow for the first ever Kudo tournament held outside the martial art’s homeland, Japan. Kudo is relatively new to Russia, but the national team has managed to take a commanding lead in the sport. Adam Haliev, team Russia, speaking Russian: “I decided to bank on my durability. The plan was to take him down, wrestle and count on the ground-and-pound. That was the only way to beat him.” Nikolay Vingert, team Russia, speaking Russian: “My little son gave me a call just before the fight and said. Daddy, you have to win. I knew he was watching the fight, so I just couldn't have disappointed him! He is five, very impressive, in that age everything should be fine for him.” Nikolay Valuev, heavyweight boxer, speaking Russian: “From here on I am Kudo's biggest fan. You want to know why? Minimum restrictions. This allows fighters to be very creative and spontaneou...

A young Russian student Anastasia Yankova is taking the world of women's kickboxing by storm. Anastasia Yankova, Russian Thai boxer (speaking Russian): “My mother didn't take it very well at first. She was relieved when I stopped fighting, that there was no more karate. And then I started all over again. But she's fine with it now and will come to my fights.” Anastasia Yankova, Russian Thai boxer (speaking Russian): “There's more to sport than just the body. It's mostly about what's inside you. And winning is about 50% your physical shape, and 50% what's in your head. There are many good sportsmen who, once in the ring, start feeling sort of lost, because they’re people watching, because they feel the pressure. And there's no sign of the skills they demonstrate during training. You have to learn to overcome it. I'm not pleased with myself, I know what I can do. I see myself practice and then I see the difference when I'm competing - and i...