A mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, Anastasia Luchkina, is facing intense criticism after a video she shared on social media showed her giving a vape device to an orangutan.
The shocking footage depicts Luchkina, 24, inhaling from the vape herself before extending it through the wire fence of an enclosure to the caged orangutan. The primate is then seen putting the vape to its mouth, pulling back, and exhaling a cloud of vapor. Luchkina reportedly repeated this action multiple times during the recording.
The incident took place when the Russian fighter visited the Taigan Safari Park in Crimea.
Luchkina`s actions quickly triggered a furious backlash from MMA fans and the wider public on social media. Commenters expressed their anger and disgust, labelling the behavior as “abuse” and questioning “What is wrong with people.” Many called for consequences, suggesting she should not be allowed to fight again or be banned from the safari park.
Reports indicate the orangutan was unharmed after the incident, but Luchkina could face penalties, including a fine and prohibition from visiting the park in the future.
PETA UK vice president Mimi Bekhechi strongly condemned Luchkina`s actions, describing it as a “violation” of the ape`s well-being. Bekhechi also highlighted alleged past negligence issues at Taigan Safari Park and urged the public to support conservation efforts for animals in their natural habitats rather than patronizing facilities that might compromise animal welfare.
In her professional MMA career, Anastasia Luchkina has a record of one fight, which she lost by unanimous decision against Indian fighter Vinaskshi last month at the King of the Himalayan Ring event.
