Lecture Notes: Kadyrov's Influence and Use of MMA in Chechnya
Overview of Kadyrov and the Kadyrovsi
The Kadyrovsi are feared soldiers in Russia, known for kidnapping, torturing, and murdering threats to their leader, Ramzan Kadyrov.
Ramzan Kadyrov: Dictator of Chechnya, a semi-autonomous region in Russia, and a loyal ally to Vladimir Putin.
Chechnya's History: History of resisting Russian control dating back to the 18th century.
Kadyrov's Alliance with Putin
During Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Kadyrov supported Putin.
Kadyrov and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Over the past decade, Kadyrov has developed an influential MMA operation to foster loyalty and serve his regime.
2015: Kadyrov established Chechnya's first MMA gym, Fight Club Ahmed, named after his father.
MMA is used to instill a warrior mentality and change Chechen culture.
Historical Context
Akhmad Kadyrov: Ramzan’s father, initially resisted Russia but switched sides to aid Russia in Chechnya for religious reasons.
Putin put Akhmad in charge of Chechnya post-conflict; however, Akhmad was assassinated by insurgents.
Ramzan Kadyrov was then put in power by Putin, receiving substantial financial support to rebuild Grozny and his militia.
Kadyrov's Strategy with MMA
Purpose: Develop a new class of loyal Chechen fighters.
Recruitment: Thousands of Chechen boys trained at Fight Club Ahmed; the best recruited to a professional roster.
Gifts for Loyalty: Fighters like Kamzat Shemayev receive luxuries for their allegiance.
Public Persona: Kadyrov aligns himself with MMA to build influence and prestige.
Militarization of MMA
Abu Zayed Vizmuradov ("Patriot"): Top commander of the Kadyrovsi and head of Fight Club Ahmed.
MMA fighters are increasingly funneled into Kadyrov's militia for military purposes.
Kadyrov promotes idealized Chechen fighters as loyal to his cause.
Kadyrov's Role in International Conflicts
Kadyrovsi in Military Operations: Participated in Russian military actions in Syria, Ukraine, including alleged war crimes.
Control Over Russian Troops: Tasked with disciplining Russian troops in Ukraine.
Nuclear Power Plant: Kadyrovsi controls the Zaporizhia plant.
International Response and Challenges
US Sanctions: Economic sanctions against Kadyrov and associates since 2017, but MMA fighters continue to compete globally.
UFC's Stance: Claims no contractual relationship with sanctioned individuals, yet permits fighters to compete.
Broader Implications
Authoritarian Influence: Kadyrov's use of MMA sets a precedent for using sports as a tool for militarization and control.
Conclusion
Kadyrov's integration of MMA into his strategy represents a blend of sports and geopolitical influence, demonstrating a new form of authoritarian control.
Additional Notes
Search Party Subscription: Encouragement to subscribe for stories on sports and geopolitics.
Incogni Sponsorship: Mention of data privacy service Incogni, offering 60% off with a code.