Official website of the President of Russia

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The President was accompanied by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, President of Abkhazia Raul Khadjimba, as well as prominent Russian hockey players Alexander Ovechkin, Pavel Bure, Yevgeny Malkin among others.

The tournament featured ten bouts between top Russian and foreign sambo professionals. The President took part in the awards ceremony and presented the prize to Vyacheslav Vasilevsky, winner of the tournament in the weight class of up to 84 kg.

The competition was organised by Sambo-70, Russia’s largest sports and education centre, and League S-70, under the aegis of the Ministry of Sport, the Krasnodar Territory Administration and the Sochi City Administration.

The event traditionally took place at the Plotforma Sports and Entertainment Centre.

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Speech at awards ceremony

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: We saw some very cool fighters today. They demonstratedeverything that the martial arts are valued for – diverse technique, excellent ground fighting and brilliant throws. But most importantly, these fighters demonstrated their courage, stamina and audacity. I would like to thank them. Let’s give them another cheer!

I want to thank both our Russian fighters and our friends from all over the world. They came here from so far away, travelled thousands of kilometres to prove their excellence. We are one family, we love you all. We hope to see you again next time, but, of course, hope that the Russians win.

My special thanks go to the event’s organisers. Thank you for uniting sport and a love for our country, Russia.

Congratulations on these exciting fights. Congratulations to the winners and their opponents.

Thank you!