Amanda Knapp
Filmmaker Will Harris travelled to Dagestan to witness first-hand the unique iteration of basketball played there, which combines basketball with elements of rugby and MMA, including takedowns. Harris, the creator of the YouTube series Anatomy of a Fighter, discussed what has been termed 'Dagestani basketball' on a podcast hosted by MMA analyst Joe Rogan, alongside undefeated UFC fighter Khabib Nurmagomedov, who posted a clip of himself making a three-pointer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Will Harris |
| Profession | Filmmaker |
| Known for | Creator of the YouTube series "Anatomy of a Fighter" |
| Associated with | MMA, UFC |
| Dagestan trip | Witnessed "Dagestani basketball", a unique blend of basketball, rugby, and MMA |
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What You'll Learn
- Will Harris is a filmmaker who travelled to Dagestan to witness the local version of basketball
- Dagestan's iteration of basketball combines the sport with elements of rugby and MMA
- Will Harris is the creator of the YouTube series Anatomy of a Fighter
- Harris bonded with Khabib Nurmagomedov, who showcased his basketball skills in a clip
- Harris also documented Nurmagomedov's training with his father and teammates
Will Harris is a filmmaker who travelled to Dagestan to witness the local version of basketball
Harris travelled to Dagestan to witness 'Dagestani basketball', a unique iteration of the sport that combines basketball with elements of rugby and MMA, including takedowns. This local version of basketball gained some notoriety after being discussed on Joe Rogan's podcast, where Rogan commented on a clip of Dagestani athletes playing the sport, exclaiming: "what the f*ck am I looking at?".
Harris's trip to Dagestan included a drive to the mountains where his host, Khabib Nurmagomedov's family is from. Harris described this drive as a "crazy" experience, as they drove along mountain edges and could easily have fallen off, with Nurmagomedov laughing at Harris's fear. Harris also witnessed Nurmagomedov's basketball abilities first-hand and commented on the intensity of the training.
Harris's work in Dagestan and with Nurmagomedov has provided an insight into the unique sporting culture of the region and its athletes. Harris's documentation of Dagestani basketball and his other work showcases his ability to capture the realness of his subjects and present them as "real people".
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Dagestan's iteration of basketball combines the sport with elements of rugby and MMA
Dagestan, a federal subject of Russia, has developed its own iteration of basketball, which combines the sport with elements of rugby and MMA. This unique blend of sports, often referred to as "Dagestani Basketball" or "Wrestleball", has gained attention for its brutal and intense nature.
Dagestani Basketball is played in a similar fashion to traditional basketball, with the addition of physical contact and tackling, reminiscent of rugby and MMA. The sport has gained a reputation for being "brutal" and "mutant", a stark contrast to the modern NBA game, which some critics argue has become too soft with its lax defence and offence-favouring rules.
MMA fighters and former rugby players are highly sought-after in this sport due to their skill set being a perfect fit for the full-contact nature of Dagestani Basketball. UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, for example, is known to have participated in this brutal variant of basketball in 2018.
The sport has its own following and has even sparked discussions among MMA enthusiasts and traditional sports fans alike. While it may be seen as an extreme version of basketball, it appeals to those who appreciate diverse sporting tastes and the raw, unfiltered nature of older-generation sports.
Dagestani Basketball, or Wrestleball, showcases a fascinating fusion of basketball, rugby, and MMA, creating a unique and intense sporting experience that challenges the boundaries of traditional sports. It remains to be seen whether this hybrid sport will gain wider recognition or remain a niche pastime for those seeking a more physical form of basketball.
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Will Harris is the creator of the YouTube series Anatomy of a Fighter
Will Harris is the creator of the YouTube series 'Anatomy of a Fighter', a documentary series about the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) combat sports. The series features some of the world's best MMA fighters, boxers, coaches, trainers, and gyms, showcasing exclusive, behind-the-scenes content. Harris, an award-winning filmmaker, directed the series with the goal of creating the "best MMA channel content on the planet".
'Anatomy of a Fighter' is a monthly documentary web series that provides subscribers with original, unmatched combat sports content. Harris' channel features day-in-the-life videos and documentaries about popular MMA and boxing athletes from across the globe. In his series, Harris aims to tell the stories of fighters, trainers, and coaches, and build trust and loyalty with his subjects.
Harris' work in documenting MMA has gained recognition, with some praising the insightfulness of his shorts and extended documentaries. In particular, his documentaries following Khabib, a well-known MMA fighter, have been well-received. Harris' dedication to his craft is evident in his process of shooting, producing, editing, sourcing information, and communicating with participants to create his documentaries.
However, in 2021, Harris announced that he was closing out his career in documenting MMA. The COVID-19 pandemic made it challenging for him to continue his work, and he faced difficulties living with the fighters and creating engaging content. Additionally, the retirement of some prominent MMA clients, such as Khabib, who now had their own recording teams, contributed to Harris' decision. Despite this, Harris' talent and body of work suggest that he will continue to create impactful films and series in the future.
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Harris bonded with Khabib Nurmagomedov, who showcased his basketball skills in a clip
Filmmaker Will Harris travelled to Dagestan to record a documentary on Khabib Nurmagomedov's life in the Russian republic. Harris's documentary channel 'Anatomy of a Fighter' has gained over 500,000 subscribers on YouTube. While in Dagestan, Harris bonded with Khabib Nurmagomedov and his crew, spending time with them and getting an insight into their training routine and everyday life.
Nurmagomedov and his crew play a unique version of basketball, which they call 'Dagestani Basketball'. This version involves a mix of basketball, rugby, and grappling. It is a way for them to warm up and cross-train. Interestingly, there is only one rule in this game: do not get injured. This type of training is common among wrestlers in former Eastern Bloc countries.
In response to Joe Rogan's statement about his basketball skills, Nurmagomedov posted a video showcasing his skills in "Dagestan Basketball". The video showed him making an impressive shot during a pickup game that was a blend of basketball and rugby.
Harris's time in Dagestan provided a rare glimpse into the life and training of Khabib Nurmagomedov, including the unique way they use "Dagestan Basketball" to warm up and cross-train.
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Harris also documented Nurmagomedov's training with his father and teammates
Will Harris, the filmmaker and creator of the YouTube series "Anatomy of a Fighter", travelled to Dagestan to witness first-hand the unique iteration of basketball played there. Harris documented the training of UFC fighter Khabib Nurmagomedov with his father and teammates. He also captured footage of Nurmagomedov's journey to the mountains where his family is from, as well as Nurmagomedov's message to Conor McGregor after an incident. Harris shared his footage with his followers, offering an insight into the intense world of Dagestani basketball, which combines elements of basketball, rugby, and MMA.
Harris's work provides a unique perspective on the lives of UFC fighters, showcasing their training routines and personal experiences. In particular, his documentation of Nurmagomedov's training with his father and teammates offers a glimpse into the fighter's preparation and the strong influence of his family and teammates.
Nurmagomedov's training in Dagestan involves a blend of basketball, rugby, and MMA elements, creating a high-intensity and unconventional style of play. Harris's footage captures the intensity of this training, showcasing the physicality and skill required to excel in this unique sporting culture.
Harris's documentation of Nurmagomedov's training with his father and teammates highlights the bond and collaboration within this group. It provides insight into the fighter's dedication, discipline, and the support system that contributes to his success. The footage offers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes preparation and the influence of family and teammates in a fighter's journey.
Through his work, Harris has not only captured the unique nature of Dagestani basketball but has also humanised UFC fighters by showcasing their personalities and lives beyond the ring. His ability to build relationships and gain the trust of these individuals has resulted in a deeper understanding of their world, which he effectively conveys to his audience.
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Frequently asked questions
Will Harris is the creator of the YouTube series "Anatomy of a Fighter". He is also a filmmaker who has documented the life of Khabib Nurmagomedov, a Russian UFC star.
Dagestani basketball is a unique blend of basketball, rugby, and MMA. It is known for its intense physicality, including takedowns, and its no-holds-barred nature.
Will Harris travelled to Dagestan to witness Dagestani basketball first-hand and to document the unique iteration of the sport. He also accompanied Khabib Nurmagomedov to his family's home in the mountains.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is a Russian UFC star and a skilled basketball player. He is known for his intense training and has gained fame through his undefeated fighting record.
Will Harris and Khabib Nurmagomedov have a close working relationship. Harris has documented Nurmagomedov's life and training, providing an insight into his mindset and real personality.
