Jeffrey Monson, a Russian mixed martial artist, boxer, and submission grappler, has publicly revealed his conversion to Islam. In a video posted on June 20, the 53-year-old athlete, accompanied by a scholar, uttered the Shahadah, the Islamic statement of faith, in an Islamic centre in Moscow. Monson added, “I embraced Islam to be with my brothers and sisters in these difficult times in Palestine,” and was clearly upset.
Monson described his conversion as a profound transformation. “I have been searching for meaning and purpose in my life, and Islam resonates with my values and beliefs, providing peace and fulfillment,” he said during a press conference. He emphasized that his decision followed extensive introspection and exploration of various religious philosophies.
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Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Monson is known for his achievements in jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts, with 60 victories, 26 defeats, and one draw. He gained Russian citizenship after renouncing his US nationality in 2018. In September 2023, Monson was elected as a deputy of the State Assembly of Bashkortostan from the United Russia party.
