Today I found out that Putin, the Russian mastermind and richest person in the world due to kleptocratic tactics in Russia, just earned an honorary 8th degree black belt in Kyokushin-kan karate. He also holds an honorary 9th degree black belt in Taekwondo.

Of course, “earned” is not the right term for honorary black belts. They are given just like honorary doctorates at universities. They are — well — honorary.

However, Putin also holds an actual earned 5th degree black belt in Judo.

That is another matter entirely, and I have some new respect for Putin that I didn’t have before. I myself earned a modest 1st degree black belt in Taekwondo many years ago, and I know how much work and dedication is required to achieve just that. It would have taken another 15 years of training at least to achieve a 5th degree. Martial arts training of any type sharpens the mind, builds character and teaches success skills. It also teaches humility.

Here are some Judo demonstrations by Putin.

If Putin took away those skills from his martial arts training, and I suspect he did, he is indeed a formidable leader and someone not to mess with lightly.

Pudgy, pampered and narcissistic Trump does not know what’s coming at him. I am sure he considers Putin an equal.

America, watch out!