Lioness Confiscated from Retired  MMA Fighter and Brought to Safety at Sanctuary

Prague/Boston, July 28, 2026 - Czech authorities initiated the confiscation of five-year-old lioness Zora after determining that she was being kept illegally without the required documentation by former MMA fighter Karlos Vémola. Following a temporary stay at Zoo Liberec, Zora has safely arrived at FOUR PAWS’ FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary in the Netherlands, where she will receive a lifelong, species-appropriate care. The rescue marks another important milestone in the long-standing cooperation between FOUR PAWS and Czech authorities in addressing the illegal keeping and trade of big cats in the country.

In yet another big cat rescue linked to retired MMA fighter Karlos Vémola, the extent of animal suffering was deeply disturbing. Zora (formerly known as Elsa) is severely overweight and has been declawed, leaving her with significant long-term health and welfare issues.

Over the coming days, at FELIDA the lioness will stay in a separate indoor enclosure, allowing her to gradually adjust to her new surroundings at her own pace. Her current obesity and the long-term challenges resulting from her declawing, both will require close monitoring and specialized care by the experienced sanctuary team.

Zora’s case is yet another example of the successful cooperation between Czech authorities and FOUR PAWS. Last year, lion cub Mero was rescued from illegal private keeping, while in 2023 tigress Ramba — who had also been declawed — was confiscated from the same owner, Karlos Vémola, due to missing legal and veterinary permits. Sadly, these are not isolated cases. Across Europe, many big cats suffer a similar fate, living as exotic pets in unsuitable conditions.