CPOY

CPOY 77 Portfolio Award of Excellence: Elena Shcherbakova

A body of work that demonstrates versatility, expertise and depth and showcases a photographer's vision

Caption
Slide 38 of 48

Tradition, cult of physical prowess and the notion that a man has to be the guardian of the family are the largest contributors to the outcome where lots of N.Caucasian young men attend martial arts clubs. Another reason for parents to send children there is while they wrestle they aren't getting into trouble on the street. A coach plays an integral part in athletes' life, providing an example of a model human being. The rise of MMA and specifically its star, Khabib Nurmagomedov, has given children the celebrity role model they could look up to, too. Although there's a controversy regarding violent nature of the sport and its misalignment with the teaching of Islam, as it prohibits striking one's face, it's being ardently followed and its champions receive praise. Young men see the sport not only as a manly thing to do, but a way out of poverty as well. Starting from wrestling or sambo, they move up to MMA fights, where "real" money can be earned.

Elena Shcherbakova / Docdocdoc
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