Fighter Jeff Monson converts to Islam

MMA fighter Jeff Monson said he converted to Islam, Match TV reported.

The fighter recited the shahada, a statement of faith in Islam, in Moscow on June 19.

"I deliberately adopt Islam. I would like to stand shoulder to shoulder with my brothers during this complicated time. I have been thinking about it a lot, but this is a decisive step," Monson said.

Monson, 53, has 60 victories, 26 defeats and 1 draw. Previously, he rejected the U.S. citizenship; in 2018, he became a Russian citizen. In September, 2023, he was elected a deputy of the State Assembly of Bashkortostan from the United Russia party.