Showbiz
Van Damme meets Putin for fighting contest
Published Thursday, Jul 15 2010, 22:56 BST | By Clare Wiley
© Rex Features
The pair had ringside seats at the competition, which is known in Russia as "fight without rules" and required combatants to use a combination of martial arts and boxing to inflict a knockout blow.
Putin presented the winner of the Ultimate Fighting European Championship with a prize.
The Inferno star has reportedly known the former KGB agent for years.
According to Sky News, Putin opened the contest, saying: "The so-called fist fights have always been in favour in Russia."
Related Stories
Ten Things About...
Ten Things About... Ridley ScottWe find out ten fast facts about the English producer and director.
Interviews
'Angels' Share' Ken Loach interviewKen Loach, Paul Laverty and Paul Brannigan on their whiskey-soaked comedy.
Fashion & Beauty
Duchess of Cambridge's memorable momentsFlick through a gallery of Kate Middleton's stand-out public appearances.
Celeb Birthdays
Marilyn Monroe: Life and career in picsFlick through our gallery on what would have been Marilyn's 86th birthday.
