Krasnodar’s Kuznya team clinched the physical martial arts title at the Future Games, a result confirmed by the event’s press service.
The competition blended digital and in-person rounds. Initially, participants clashed in the video game Mortal Combat, followed by real-world combat inside the Octagon under mixed martial arts rules. Eight teams from Russia, the United States, Bahrain, and Armenia took part, with each squad fielding four athletes in the physical bouts.
One standout moment from the opening day came when Russian fighter Halim Nazruloev faced American Jorge Juarez. Competing in the 65.8-kilogram category, Nazruloev dominated the match with an 11–0 scoreline.
According to the press service, Nazruloev had a notable meeting on the eve of victory with the Russian president and leaders from CIS nations during their tour of the City of “Future Games.”
“I was invited to the opening ceremony and saw presidents from nearly every CIS country. I also met President Vladimir Putin. I told him that my main physical bout for the night would be against an American, and he offered his best wishes. I promised not to lose, and I fulfilled that pledge,” Nazruloev stated.
After the first day’s matches, GOR Union and RCC led the standings with 19 points each. Close behind were MK Team on 15, Kuznya on 13, and Arabian Warriors on 10.
On day two, Krasnodar Kuznya looked to a familiar ruler of the competition, Vladislav Sukalenko. Having previously triumphed at the Fidgetal Games, Sukalenko again prevailed, securing a dry win on the joystick and a victory in the Octagon. The 11 points earned propelled his team to the top spot.
Sukalenko described the moment with enthusiasm: “Indescribable feelings! I’m here for the second time, and the trophy is mine again. It’s a privilege not to break this tradition, and I hope it continues.”
The phygital edition of the Future Games runs from February 21 to March 3. The program features 21 innovative disciplines across ten sports venues in Kazan and Sochi, offering a diverse showcase that blends digital play with live competition.