A recently surfaced interview features Victoria Lipova, a Russian UFC competitor, who responded to remarks published by a sports outlet describing her as a traitor. Lipova contends that the accusation crosses a line, arguing that faiths in Russia are varied and coexist peacefully. She emphasizes that loyalty lies with a united Russia, especially during moments of national challenge, and she views multicultural solidarity as essential to resisting external pressures. Lipova believes the charge targets not a single faith but the broader goal of sowing division within society, a tactic she rejects in favor of unity among all Russians and allied communities within the country’s borders.
According to Lipova, the idea of division is more a matter of online rhetoric than on-the-ground reality. She stresses that soldiers and civilians from many backgrounds are actively supporting the nation at present, including numerous Caucasian individuals who have stood alongside others to defend the country. The fighter suggests that such divisive topics are often amplified online rather than reflected in real-world actions, cautioning against letting digital discussions dictate perceptions of national unity.
Lipova adds that she does not tolerate calls for disunity and has historically addressed similar attitudes directly, issuing warnings when necessary. In her view, maintaining public harmony is crucial, and any behavior that undermines public trust or incites discord is unacceptable. Her stance aligns with a broader message of national cohesion and mutual respect among all residents, regardless of background.
In the ring, Lipova recently secured a decisive win at UFC 294, held in Abu Dhabi, where she defeated American fighter Jean Yu Frey. The contest was decided over three rounds, with the judges awarding Lipova a unanimous score of 29-28, 29-28, 29-28. This victory marks her eighth straight win, bringing her undefeated run in eight professional bouts to date. Lipova began her MMA career on September 25, 2020, triumphing over fellow Russian opponent Irina Degtyareva in what became the start of a notable career path in mixed martial arts.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Lipova has been characterized by a strong stance on national identity and loyalty. In public comments prior to the latest events, she had remarked that holding an American passport was unnecessary for her, underscoring a commitment to her home country and its diverse, interconnected communities. Lipova’s narrative continues to blend high-level competition with a broader message about unity, resilience, and the responsibility of public figures to model constructive dialogue even in the face of controversy.