Al Jazeera English, 101 East delves into the brutal world of mixed martial arts (MMA) in Russia and the former USSR.
A sunday morning in suburban Moscow draws a crowd to witness fighters engage in the intense combat of MMA. Millions across the region share a fervor for this extreme sport, where superstar fighters not only earn fortunes but also inspire a new generation.
Yet, critics argue that political leaders exploit MMA to serve their own interests.