Russian MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko spoke openly about the deep moral and spiritual conflict between his Orthodox Christian faith and his career in fighting.
He recalled a story involving Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk and an elder at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery:
The elder asked Usyk, and he answered.
And at the end, the elder says: “But how can we beat you if we have a commandment like this: love your neighbor as yourself?”
Emelianenko said Usyk responded that a priest had blessed him to compete “with love”.
Fedor, however, admitted he views things differently and doesn’t shy away from the contradiction:
That’s how it will be for us with love, which is impossible with love in our sport.
He acknowledged the clear conflict between the teachings of Christianity and the violence inherent in MMA, which troubles him as well:
Our sports are not pleasing to God, because love your neighbor as yourself we injure, we hit people on the head very harshly.
Emelianenko admitted that fighters often justify what they do, even when it contradicts their beliefs – his own as well:
We don’t live according to the commandments but according to our own desires…
Much to my regret.
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
