Kazakhstan’s Mikhail Shaidorov may have already secured a gold medal in men’s figure skating at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, but his performance at Saturday’s exhibition gala might just be his most memorable moment of the Games. Shaidorov traded his skating boots for a full-body panda suit, delivering a playful and energetic routine that captivated the audience and quickly went viral.
The 21-year-old skater’s homage to the 2008 animated film “Kung Fu Panda” wasn’t just a costume change; it was a fully committed performance. Shaidorov bowed to the audience before launching into his routine as the opening notes of “Kung Fu Fighting” filled the arena. The performance blended athletic skill with comedic timing, quickly becoming a highlight of the gala event.
Shaidorov’s routine included a playful “duel” with characters from other video game franchises – Deadpool and Sub Zero – initially fending off their attacks before ultimately being “defeated.” As he lay on the ice, a surprising twist occurred: Tenacious D’s cover of Britney Spears’ “…Baby One More Time” began to play. Rising to his feet, Shaidorov continued his performance, finishing with a triple jump, a pirouette, a cartwheel, and a leg kick before collapsing to the ground to a standing ovation, according to reports from the Peacock broadcast.
The unexpected and lighthearted performance was a welcome contrast to the intense competition of the Olympic Games. One commentator on the Peacock broadcast described the routine as “super silly, but lots and lots of fun.” Shaidorov’s performance also included a moment of camaraderie as he embraced martial arts legend Jackie Chan, who was in attendance at the gala.
Shaidorov’s gold medal-winning performance in men’s figure skating was a significant achievement for Kazakhstan, marking a high point for the nation in the sport. He secured his victory with a compelling free skate, solidifying his position as a rising star in the figure skating world. Still, it was the panda suit that truly captured the hearts of fans and viewers worldwide.
The exhibition gala, a tradition at the Winter Olympics, provides athletes with a chance to showcase their personalities and creativity outside of competitive routines. Shaidorov’s choice to embody Po, the lovable panda from “Kung Fu Panda,” resonated with audiences and demonstrated a playful side often unseen in the high-pressure environment of the Olympics. The performance quickly became a trending topic on social media, with fans praising Shaidorov’s originality and humor.
The skater’s performance is a reminder that the Olympics are not just about athletic prowess, but also about the joy of sport and the ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Shaidorov’s willingness to embrace a lighthearted and unexpected routine has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the Milano Cortina Games.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw to a close, Shaidorov’s panda-themed performance will likely be remembered as one of the most charming and unexpected moments of the Games. The skater’s future in figure skating remains bright, and fans will be eager to see what he brings to the ice in future competitions. Share your thoughts on Shaidorov’s performance in the comments below!