Combat sports surge in Finland amid far-right and Ice Cage controversy

Combat sports participation in Finland has risen sharply in recent years, according to national federations and training centers, even as the disciplines face growing association with far-right activity and violence.

Jimi Miettinen, CEO of the Joensuu-based Combat Heaven gym, described the trend as a “boom,” with all beginner courses fully booked for the past three years. Membership at his facility has grown from 200 to around 800.

The Finnish Boxing Association and the Finnish Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation both report a rebound after pandemic-era declines, with boxing licenses increasing by over 1,400 from 2021 to 2025.

Gyms attribute the growth to improved marketing, more frequent events, and a focus on personal stories rather than the sport itself. Otto Salminen, operations director at Helsinki’s Crest gym, noted that international promotions have influenced Finland’s approach, drawing in newcomers who had never before set foot on a mat.

The Ice Cage Fighting event, now a major arena-scale production in Finland, has been a key driver of interest. Oulu’s Kamppailuklubi CEO Kimmo Kolehmainen cited the success of its athletes—including MMA world champions Isla Fono and Sani Brännfors, both of whom have competed in Ice Cage—as a factor in rising participation.

Yet the sport’s reputation has been marred by links to far-right groups and controversial figures. Some Ice Cage competitors have faced allegations of misogyny and criminal activity, while far-right organizations have increasingly used combat sports as a recruitment tool, particularly targeting youth.

A new far-right combat group, White Youth 03, began operating in Päijät-Häme earlier this year, with activity observed in Lahti’s Kisapuisto park. Tero Toivanen, a coach with three decades of experience at Lahti’s Kamppailulajikeskus, condemned any connection between combat sports and street violence.

“This is a diverse and beneficial form of exercise,” Toivanen said. “The goal here is personal growth—mentally and physically. Many have turned their lives around through disciplined training.” He added that structured sessions help distinguish between sport and fighting, with many former brawlers becoming skilled athletes.

Aatu Hyvölä, 23, who attends Toivanen’s Wednesday MMA sessions, said he initially thought training would be easy. “The fun stayed, but it turned out to be hard work,” he said.