Shaked NISIMIAN: “Being Strong and Feminine Is My Power”

The Combat SAMBO tournament at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China, started on August 13. Israeli Shaked Nisimian won the gold medal in the 72 kg weight category – fulfilling a dream she had voiced years earlier.

“I remember at my first SAMBO competition, the European Championships, someone asked me about my goal. I said, ‘To become The World Games champion.’ And here I am. Dreams are made to come true,” Nisimian told the FIAS website after her victory.

For the 22-year-old, the road to this title was long and demanding. “I fight for my soul every day. I’ve given up a lot in life for this sport, and I never regret it. Every morning I wake up grateful that this is my life. I just want to fight, have fun, and be surrounded by such a good team and coaches,” she said.

Nisimian sees her success not only as a personal achievement but also as a step forward for women in combat sports. Alongside her teammate Nili Block, she takes pride in inspiring more girls in Israel to take up Combat SAMBO. “We don’t need to try to be manly. We fight like girls – and we do it well. Look at me, nails done, hair done. I don’t need to be anyone else but me. That’s my message: don’t be afraid of combat sports. They can be the best thing you do for yourself,” she emphasized.

Her path in martial arts began in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where she earned silver at both the World and European Championships, as well as a world title in the under-21 category. Switching to Combat SAMBO opened a new chapter – and a new challenge. “I love the mental aspect. On the mat, you’re there with only yourself. I believe you can achieve anything you put your mind to, even if others think you’re crazy. Being ‘delusional’ can be a good thing – it means you believe in something no one else does,” Nisimian said.

The Israeli champion describes Combat SAMBO as “an amazing sport” and hopes it will continue to grow internationally following its return to The World Games. For her, the next steps are clear: “I will keep training, keep fighting, and keep inspiring others. I also want a strong, happy family one day. But for now, I want the whole world to know about this incredible sport.”

The World Games 2025 in Chengdu mark a historic milestone for SAMBO, being the only new sport added to the program compared to the previous Games. For Shaked Nisimian, they also mark the realization of a promise she made to herself – and a powerful statement that strength and femininity can go hand in hand.