On April 11, 2026, in Kursk at the sports hall of Kursk State University, the All-Russian Mixed Martial Arts Tournament "Kursk Character" was held in memory of the participant of the special military operation Dmitry Malakhov and all servicemen who died in the line of military duty.
122 young fighters aged 8 to 17 from three subjects of the Russian Federation took part in the competition: Kursk Oblast, Moscow Oblast, and Krasnodar Krai. Nine teams competed for medals, including SK "Patriot" (Oboyan), VSK "Olimp" (Moscow and Kursk), "Kursk Academy of Martial Arts", BK "Uragan", and others.
The tournament was given special significance by its origin: the initiator was Oleg Igorevich Malakhov – the father of the fallen hero, chairman of the Kursk branch of "Delovaya Rossiya". According to him, the goal of the event is not only to honor the memory of his son, who practiced sambo, but also to pass on to the younger generation the values of honor, resilience, and service to the Fatherland.
At the opening ceremony, Olga Gorina, Deputy Chairman of the Committee of Families of Soldiers of the Fatherland of Kursk Oblast, delivered welcoming words:
"This is not just a sports competition. This is living memory and tribute to our heroes. Such events are extremely important for fostering patriotism, strengthening the spirit, and passing on true values to the younger generation."
Among the honorary guests were representatives of regional authorities, deputies, the rector of KSU, clergy, SVO veterans, and members of the Public Chamber. The president of the "OSE" organization Sergey Evdokimov announced the intention to make the tournament annual.
Competition results:
- Among regions: 1st place – Kursk Oblast, 2nd – Moscow Oblast, 3rd – Krasnodar Krai
- Among teams: 1st place – "Kursk Academy of Martial Arts", 2nd – SK "Patriot" (Oboyan), 3rd – BK "Uragan" (Kursk)
The tournament became a vivid example of how sports can become a bridge between generations – and a tool not only for physical, but also moral development of youth.