Former UFC fighter Jeff Monson does not want to get drafted for the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine but would be willing to step up to the task if needed.
Having started his professional mixed martial arts career in 1997, Monson is a grizzled veteran who competed for nearly two decades. He competed in regional circuits for the most part until he chose to hang up the gloves after a win over Alex Kardo in his final outing in Oct. 2016. ‘The Snowman’ took to the octagon one more time in a pro exhibition match against Viacheslav Datsik in Aug. after a six-year hiatus but dropped the bout on the judges’ scorecards.
Ex-UFC fighter Jeff Monson admitted he doesn’t want to get called up for the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine
As the battle on his naturalized country’s border rages on, Monson gave his thoughts on the possibility of getting transcripted for the war between Russia and Ukraine. He called for the conflict to get resolved urgently, with his side winning the fight.
“I hope I don’t get drafted,” Monson said (transcribed by Bloody Elbow). “I think everyone hopes that he will not be called up. I want Russia to win this confrontation as quickly as possible.”
Monson will go to protect his home
Monson has come under fire in the past for his strong ties with Vladimir Putin, President of Russia. In 2018, the Minnesota native was granted Russian citizenship and he has proven to be an influential player in Putin’s political coalition, All-Russia People’s Front.
While he does not wish to get drafted, ‘The Snowman’ would be willing to fight for Russia if he gets the call.
“I love this country. It has done a lot for me,” Monson said. “This is my home, the home of my children, my wife. If we all live here and say: ‘No,’ then who will protect the country? But if they call me, I will go.”
Jeff Monson had made his way to the UFC for the first time early in his career in Sep. 2000. He went on to lose a bout to former UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell before another defeat saw him leave the promotion. Monson returned for a second stint under the UFC banner in Feb. 2006 and racked up a three-fight win streak before former two-time UFC heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia handed him a defeat to exit the company.
