Russian Media Mogul Loses Cool on TV and Punches Rival

Alexander Lebedev is well known in the UK. The Russian media Mogul owns two British newspapers, the Independent and the Evening Standard. He's also a former KGB agent, which could explain his recent outburst of force during a debate on Russian TV. Sky News explains:

Alexander Lebedev, owner of The Independent and the Evening Standard, floored ex-property developer baron Sergei Polonsky during a debate on Russia and the global financial crisis.

A stunned audience watched as the former KGB agent, who made a fortune in banking, landed a right jab on Mr Polonsky's face.

Mr Polonsky was knocked from his chair and tumbled off the back of the studio's elevated platform.

The punch was thrown seconds after Mr Polonsky told other guests he wanted to "stick one in the mouth".

And yes, there is video:

After the incident, Sky News reports, Lebedev took to his blog to explain his actions. He was unapologetic, saying, that Polosnky was acting threatening throughout the interview, and he had to act.

"In a critical situation, there is no choice. I see no reason to be hit with the first shot. I neutralised him," he said.