Alexander Emelianenko, known for his long presence in mixed martial arts, publicly reached out to his elder brother Fedor on social media, extending birthday wishes and sharing a personal note. He wrote, “Now I am in Ingushetia, I am undergoing rehabilitation here. I am getting rid of my harmful and harmful habits. Let my sobriety be your birthday present. Happy birthday.”
According to recent updates, the fighter has been staying at a rehabilitation center in Ingushetia since early June. This comes after a documented history of struggle with alcoholism, including a 2022 period of treatment. In late May of that year, Emelianenko checked into a clinic in Yekaterinburg, an action confirmed by his manager, Nikita Burchak, who indicated there was no additional information suggesting any other health risk or external influence driving the move. The focus, as described by those close to him, was the need to address health concerns and establish a sustainable path to sobriety.
Alexander Emelianenko is widely recognized as a former ProFC world champion and has a storied career in combat sports. He has been identified as a prominent figure in Russian and international sambo, holding titles that reflect his mastery of the discipline. In late May, Emelianenko added a notable achievement to his competitive resume by securing a second-round submission victory over Evgeny Ershov at a REN TV Fight Club event in Moscow, a result that underscored his continued willingness to compete at a high level while pursuing personal rehabilitation.
There have been prior public statements from Emelianenko’s management regarding changes in his personal beliefs, including discussions about a shift in his religious affiliation. These comments have framed a broader narrative about the athlete’s life beyond the ring, touching on personal renewal and the ways in which public figures navigate personal transformation while maintaining professional commitments. The surrounding dialogue reflects ongoing interest from fans and media outlets in how his journey intersects with his athletic legacy and public persona.