sambo

Sambo is a Russian martial art and combat sport developed in the Soviet Union during the 1920s and 1930s as a unified system for hand-to-hand combat. The name SAMBO is an acronym derived from the Russian phrase meaning self-defense without weapons. The practice draws on various wrestling styles, judo, and other national fighting traditions to create a cohesive discipline for both sport and self-defense.

There are two main competitive forms: Sport Sambo and Combat Sambo. Sport Sambo emphasizes throws, pins, and submissions, and competitors wear a jacket (kurtka) and shorts. The jacket grip enables a wide range of throws similar to judo, while leg grabs are also allowed. Matches are decided by throws, control on the mat, or submissions. Combat Sambo adds striking and ground fighting and is practiced with protective gear; it is designed to train military and law enforcement personnel and to emphasize practical self-defense and combat effectiveness.

Governing bodies and competition: International governance is provided by the International Sambo Federation, and since 2018 the sport has been affiliated with United World Wrestling. World Championships are held for both formats, and Sambo is practiced worldwide, with active programs in Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa. The sport is not currently an Olympic discipline, though it has attracted international participation and support.