12-Year-Old Kudo Athlete Bogdan and Labrador Zak Conquer Social Media

The unusual duo of 12-year-old kudo athlete Bogdan Yelizarov and his Labrador Zak from Vladivostok gained unexpected online attention this summer. The inventive young athlete posted videos on Instagram* showing techniques practiced on his large, gentle four-legged companion, with the dog dressed in a kimono to mimic a real combat scenario.

Bogdan and Zak captivated users so much that their videos rapidly went viral on social media, attracting journalists from not only Primorye but other Russian regions to witness the unique sparring sessions firsthand. Bogdan was also interviewed by journalists from VLADIVOSTOK1.RU. Furthermore, renowned fighters such as Petr Yan, Anatoly Malykhin, and Sarvarjon Khamidov praised the unconventional duo.

Bogdan is actively building his career not only as an athlete by regularly competing internationally but also by enhancing his public profile and media presence. Zak eagerly assists his owner in this endeavor, and as soon as he sees the kimono, he knows it«s time for a video shoot.

Learn more about Bogdan«s life, his athletic achievements, and the origin of the idea to train with his dog by watching the video above.

* Owned by Meta, which is recognized as an extremist organization in Russia.