×
Enjoying ad-free content?
Since July 1, 2024, we have disabled all ads to improve your reading experience.
This commitment costs us $10,000 a month. Your support can help us fill the gap.
Support us
Our journalism is banned in Russia. We need your help to keep providing you with the truth.

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.

A Message from The Moscow Times:

Dear readers,

We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."

These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.

We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.

Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.

By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.

Once
Monthly
Annual
Continue
paiment methods
Not ready to support today?
Remind me later.

Read more