TundraMMA is a commercial and competitive gym based out of Vladivostok, Russia specializing in cross-training.
TundraMMA is founded and owned by its first three fighters:
- Boxing specialist Aleksandr Baranov, a Sambo expert and Russian military veteran.
- Submission wrestler Ross Hanson, from a family of decorated wrestlers
- Taekwondo and Muay Thai specialist Ariel Shadows, former pro wrestler and trainer
TundraMMA believes that a true fighter does not rely on one particular style, and that in order to be the best a mix of styles and techniques must be applied. With this in mind, TundraMMA will focus on training any fighter or wrestler who wishes to hone their craft, as well as general training for newcomers to combat sports or those who simply wish to learn some self-defense skills.
Vladivostok was chosen as the home city due to its subarctic climate, as well as affordable gym space. Russia is one of the coldest countries on Earth, and the benefits of training in this environment are well-documented. Russia is also sorely lacking in economic opportunities.
Ross Hanson has made over $300,000 in his short 12-month pro fight career, and Ariel Shadows has a current net worth of $6.3m. Aleksandr Baranov's financial status is unknown, due to Russian law preventing public disclosure of financial statements. It is believed that he is somewhere in the $1m range.
With the finances taken care of, and the wide range of fighting styles available, TundraMMA has the potential to overtake the MMA world.
