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First-Ever ‘Slapping Championship’ Comes to Siberia

Dmitry Kotov / Siberian Power Show

Who has time for handshakes, hellos or a casual nod when you can give your partner a good old slap instead? In this Siberian city, men demonstrate physical prowess with the first-ever “Slapping Championship” in Krasnoyarsk, as documented thoroughly on Russian social media.

The challenge is precisely what it sounds like: Men take turns to stoically slap their opponent on the cheek until one of them gives up or is disqualified, the stolitca24.ru local news website reported.

Only a tall box stands between the competitors to offer support and balance after each smack. Unlike similar sports like boxing, participants cannot dodge or deflect their opponents’ slaps — they’re required to feel the force of each blow.

The championship's winner walked away with a 30,000 ruble ($470) prize.

The slapping face-off was part of the Siberian Power Show sports festival, stolitca24.ru reported.

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