Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Once Had a Lucrative MMA Challenge for Vladimir Putin

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe once gave a surprising mixed martial art challenge to the president of Russia Vladimir Putin. Putin is famous for his mixed martial arts history. He has previously trained in Judo and has always talked highly about mixed martial arts sports. He was even seen sparring in Judo multiple times.

Considering Putin’s experience in the sport, the former Japanese prime minister proposed a match between him and the Japanese judoka, Yasuhiro Yamashita.

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While talking to him at an Asia economic forum, Abe said, “Yamashita-san, can you not invite the two presidents with black belts to Japan, via the Japanese judo federation? That way, Mr. Yamashita and the two presidents could show us some training moves.” 

The Russian president is a judo enthusiast and once was a black belt in the sport. Hence, besides Abe, many others have also challenged Putin in a combat match several times.

Joe Rogan backed Elon Musk after he challenged Vladimir Putin for single combat

During the tense conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Putin received a backlash from around the world. Amidst this, the South African billionaire Elon Musk challenged the Russian president for single combat.

Apparently, the long-time UFC color commentator, Joe Rogan, not only backed Musk for his challenge but also offered to train him. “Elon Musk wants. He wants to fight Putin. Have you seen that?” Rogan said on his podcast.

“I offered my services. I texted him, I said dude I will arrange all of your training. If you really do fight Putin, I will arrange all your training. It would be so f**king epic,” Rogan concluded.

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The 54-year-old has a long history in MMA and has also competed in amateur kickboxing. Provided his expertise in MMA and close relationship with the Tesla CEO, he chimed in to help Musk.

What do you guys think of Rogan wanting to help Musk in the past? What is your reaction to Abe’s old challenge to Putin? Let us know in the comments section below.