FIGHTING CULTURE IN DAGESTAN
Fighting and wrestling in Dagestan are more than just a sport. It is a great part of the culture of the North Caucasian republic (Russia) that is well known for its world champions. Every kid in Dagestan grows up surrounded by fighting. The general level of poverty of the region is also an essential factor pushing young men into a career in fighting. The success of wrestlers trained in Dagestan has now made the region a top draw for the sport, especially after the victory of the 30 years old Dagestani MMA fighter Khabib "The Eagle" Nurmagomedov over Irish MMA superstar Conor McGregor in 2018. Khabib Nurmagomedov became a national hero and an example for young boys in Dagestan, Russia and worldwide.