Putin’s “Agent 007”: Anton Afinogenov, the mysterious bodyguard attracting attention in Russia

Anton Afinogenov’s frequent presence alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin during trips and public appearances has sparked considerable interest, particularly because of his physique.

Afinogenov serves in Russia’s Presidential Security Service (SBP), while some admirers have dubbed him Putin’s personal “Agent 007.” Although he has appeared in various official photographs and materials for years, almost no personal information about him has been made public. His age, rank, birthplace and education are unknown.

The Sun reports that the bodyguard has become a much-discussed figure on social media. Fan pages have even been created for him, where he is referred to by the nicknames “AA” and “Handsome Anton.”

Afinogenov’s first documented appearance alongside Putin dates back to July 2011, although he may have joined the security team even earlier.

His name became publicly known in March 2025. At the time, the Dossier Centre published a list of bodyguards who had the trust and authorization required to accompany Putin outside Russia. A review of official photographic archives showed that Afinogenov was among the nine bodyguards most frequently seen with the Russian president during his trips.

Although efforts have been made to obtain more details about members of the security team, the information uncovered about Afinogenov remains extremely limited.

Reports say he has a highly muscular build and weighs more than 100 kilograms. Sources cited by the media claim that Afinogenov has paramilitary training and experience in martial arts. These traits have led social media users to compare him to action-movie characters and call him a “super soldier.”

Unconfirmed theories have also circulated online suggesting that his abilities and physique may be linked to secret programs for the “biotechnological enhancement” of soldiers. However, there is no public evidence supporting such claims.

Putin’s protection detail is considered one of the strictest security systems in the world. According to reports, bodyguards are selected based on their physical and psychological qualities. Detailed checks are also conducted at the locations Putin is expected to visit before every presidential trip.

Other reports indicate that security personnel use specialized protective equipment. The use of mobile phones and other electronic devices is also restricted near the Russian president.

The high level of secrecy surrounding the presidential security team has ensured that Anton Afinogenov remains one of the most enigmatic figures in Putin’s security detail. Meanwhile, photographs showing him alongside the Russian leader continue to generate growing interest on social media.