„Unfortunatley, there are two personalities – Vlad Dikidzhi and Lilwavymoves”

Vladislav Dikidzhi, 20, from St. Petersburg has claimed his first National title in December 2024 in Omsk. He already won the silver medal a year ago. However, since Russian skaters are banned since 2022, Vlad, as he is usually called, is unknown to most skating fans outside Russia. He only competed once internationally, at the Denis Ten Memorial in fall 2021 in Kazakhstan, where he won the junior event. Dikidzhi was selected for the ISU Junior Grand Prix in the past as well but withdrew due to injury.

Vlad made some headlines when he posted videos of himself landing a quad Axel in practice, but he hasn’t attempted it in competition yet. As the current Russian Champion and after showing strong performances this season, the sports college student looks like a top candidate for the Olympic qualifiying competition in September and could qualify a spot for himself for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Vlad’s unusual last name is of Turkish origin but his father is Bulgarian. We introduce the new Russian Champion to you in our exclusive interview.

Have you realized that you’re now Russian Champions? What emotions, feelings do you have now?

Vlad: Today, I guess, I feel relaxed. Pleasant feelings. And joyful. More or less, I already realize that I have accomplished such a great achievement. Of course, it's very nice when your work pays off. I didn't think it would turn out like this, of course, but I'm glad it turned out the way it did.