✦ Guardian of the Art
Viktor Spiridonov
also known as V.A. Spiridonov
Soft/tactical Sambo for injured practitioners; NKVD combat trainer
📍 Russia⌛ 1870-1899 (Meiji / Colonial)⧖ c. 1882 – c. 1943
Sambo (co-founder)Jujutsuwrestlingmilitary combat
Affiliated ·FIAS
WWI veteran. Injuries influenced softer approach. Independently created system that merged with Oshchepkov's.
✦ Founded
Co-created Sambo (independently)
Notable Achievements
Co-creator of Sambo (independently from Oshchepkov); NKVD combat instructor; Developed soft/tactical self-defense system; WWI veteran
Documented Students
Soviet military students