Finnish medieval combat athlete embraces armored battles despite hating violence

Finnish fighter Sami Lappeteläinen, known in the sport as Sir Lappis, has spent over a decade mastering buhurt—a full-contact medieval combat sport where armored athletes strike each other with blunted weapons—despite his deep aversion to violence, reports Finnish broadcaster Yle.

Lappeteläinen, 49, describes the sport as a way to confront and overcome fear. “I hate violence. I don’t want people to get hurt. That’s my biggest weakness in buhurt,” he admits. Yet the physical and mental discipline of armored combat has become central to his identity. “When you put on the armor, you step into another world. It creates a sense of security, both physically and mentally. You become more self-confident.”

The sport, which spread to Finland from Eastern Europe in 2013, involves full-force strikes with axes, swords, and maces while wearing 25–40 kg of custom-made steel armor. A complete set can cost up to €10,000; Lappeteläinen’s own gear is valued at around €7,000. Safety checks are mandatory before each bout, and weapons must be blunted to prevent serious injury.

Core values and personal growth

Lappeteläinen’s shield bears two words: järki (reason) and oikeudenmukaisuus (justice), principles he applies beyond the battlefield. “Reason means making sustainable decisions based on clear thinking. Justice means treating people fairly—same rules for everyone,” he explains.

For him, buhurt is less about winning and more about the experience: the adrenaline of epic clashes and the camaraderie of the sport. After nearly two decades, he recently stepped back from competitive leagues but remains committed. “Buhurt is my life’s work. I’ll keep practicing because I love it.”

Fear of war and advice for the young

Despite his warrior persona, Lappeteläinen describes himself as a “doom realist,” deeply concerned about global conflicts. With two sons approaching military age, he fears they may face real combat. “The thought terrifies me. We’re closer to war than people want to admit.”

His message to young people is one of authenticity: “Do what you want, not just what others around you are doing. When you look back as an old man, you’ll be happier for it.”