Evgeny Griva Awarded Shodan Black Belt in Recognition of Contributions to Martial Arts and International Cooperation
Mumbai, India — Evgeny Griva, Deputy Trade Commissioner of Russia, has been awarded the Shodan Black Belt in Karate in recognition of more than 13 years of dedicated practice in Shito-ryu Karate and his significant contribution to the development and promotion of martial arts in India.
The black belt was formally conferred by Shihan Hira Singh Dangol, Kata Coach, Former Chief Instructor of the Nepal Karate Federation, and Former Deputy Sports Director of the National Sports Council of Nepal. The ceremony took place in conjunction with the MMAFI Festival in Mumbai, a major international event celebrating combat sports and martial arts.
Evgeny Griva is a registered Shodan Black Belt under the Nepal Shito Ryu Karate Association and specializes in Freestyle Kumite, Knife techniques, Kickboxing, and practical self-defense techniques. His long-standing involvement in martial arts reflects discipline, commitment, and a sustained effort to promote professional excellence.
Beyond his personal achievements, Mr. Griva has played an important role in strengthening Indo-Russian cooperation in combat sports. With his support, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Mixed Martial Arts Federation of India (MMAFI) and the Russian promotional organization Fight Nights, led by Kamil Gadzhiev. The agreement aims to enhance international collaboration, organize joint sporting events, and facilitate the exchange of technical expertise between India and Russia.
The MMAFI Festival in Mumbai underscored India’s commitment to expanding international engagement in the field of martial arts. The black belt award ceremony and related institutional partnerships highlighted the growing role of sports diplomacy in strengthening cultural ties and fostering positive interstate relations.
The organizers extended their best wishes to Evgeny Griva for continued success in his martial arts journey and acknowledged his ongoing support for initiatives that promote international cooperation through sport.
