While its mentioned in passing over commentary, WWE rarely highlights the fact that Rusev is trained in sambo, a traditional Russian martial art. Sambo is an acronym for Samozashchita Bez Oruzhiya, which translates literally as self-defense without weapons and has roots in Judo. Right now, the sambo aspect isnt a huge part of Rusevs character or in-ring offense, but WWE should really consider making it a part of his character. Its a unique and visually interesting style that would be easily identifiable with Rusev, so if viewers saw it anywhere else theyd associate it with WWEs star. At only twenty-eight, Rusev is a lot younger than he looks, and is much more agile than a man of his size should be. Hes billed as the Super-Athlete and its not just a flashy moniker, there are few people quite like Rusev and he could be a special attraction for UFC similar to Brock Lesnar. Rusev is also a former powerlifter, and at 6ft, 300lbs is an absolute brick wall of a man with a low centre of gravity making it very hard to take him off his feet. Given the right training, Rusev could be a surprise threat in the world of mixed martial arts.
