Sergey Kiriyenko, the First Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation, underscored a central belief about the ultimate aim of a fighter: to defend one’s people and country. He spoke these words during the awards ceremony for the competition “Battle of Champions 14: School vs. School,” where the winner was announced and celebrated.
“Gratitude goes to the warriors, the true masters, who demonstrated their craft, their resolve, and their courage today. A real fighter can defend himself, a martial artist can harness his skill to protect those in need. Yet the highest duty remains the ability to stand up for one’s people and one’s country, Russia. Thank you all for this moment; victory will belong to us,” he said during the ceremony.
Earlier reports indicated that roughly one hundred athletes affiliated with the Russian Martial Arts Union had volunteered for service in designated operational zones, reflecting a broader commitment among competitors to their nation’s cause.
The competition’s winner was Shamil Musaev, representing the Russian Wushu Federation, who received recognition from Sergei Kiriyenko in a moment described as emblematic of the sport’s values and the spirit of national service. This occasion highlighted the fusion of athletic excellence with a sense of collective responsibility—themes that resonate with audiences concerned about sport, culture, and civic duty across North America and beyond. (Source attribution: official statements from the Kremlin press service and associated organizations.)