In the midst of the harrowing war initiated by Russia against Ukraine, disconcerting connections between sports and military are being exposed. One such revelation involves Magomed Kurbanaliev, a Russian freestyle wrestler, who currently holds the rank of ensign and is contracted with the Central Sports Club of the Army.

This disclosure has ignited outrage and condemnation, prompting a crucial dialogue about the intertwining of sports and military activities in Russia during this brutal war. Critics argue that athletes and sports professionals should remain neutral and distant from such conflicts, advocating for the separation of sports from political and military agendas.