Vitaly Zdorovetskiy 'Grim' Update: Why Did 'Rampage' Jackson Say Russian YouTuber Could Die In Philippine Jail?

Russian-American YouTuber Vitaly Zdorovetskiy remains in detention in the Philippines nearly six months after being arrested for what authorities describe as disruptive prank videos. The 33-year-old, best known for his VitalyzdTV channel, was taken into custody on 3 April 2025 following a series of public stunts that local officials said harassed and insulted Filipinos.

Zdorovetskiy faces three counts of unjust vexation, a misdemeanour under Philippine law referring to acts that annoy, embarrass or harass without justifiable cause. Each count carries a possible sentence of up to one year. If convicted on all charges, the penalties could be cumulative.

His bail requests have been denied, and he remains under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), having been transferred from immigration custody earlier this year. Deportation proceedings have been paused after both Russia and the United States, where he holds a green card, reportedly declined to accept him. Philippine authorities have said he must therefore face the local legal process.

Rampage Jackson's Warning

Former mixed martial arts champion Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson has drawn attention to Zdorovetskiy's situation, claiming the YouTuber 'might not make it out alive'. Jackson's comments were made during a livestream in June, citing alleged harsh conditions inside Filipino jails. He singled out facilities such as Bicutan, known for overcrowding and limited access to basic resources.

Jackson's comments have sparked discussion online but remain his personal opinion rather than verified fact. Neither Philippine authorities nor independent medical sources have released evidence confirming any immediate threat to Zdorovetskiy's health or safety.

What Remains Unverified

Reports suggesting Zdorovetskiy faces up to 24 years in prison appear inconsistent with official records. Court filings indicate that the maximum combined sentence for his current charges could reach around 18 months, according to the Philippine News Agency. The higher figure likely stems from speculation or misinterpretation of unrelated offences.

Details about his mental or physical health remain uncertain. Zdorovetskiy has reportedly requested leniency on mental health grounds, though no public medical documentation substantiates serious illness. His legal team has not issued detailed statements beyond confirming his continued detention.

The Bigger Picture

Zdorovetskiy's case has become a flashpoint for debate over online behaviour, cultural sensitivity and the limits of prank-based entertainment. Filipino officials, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, have criticised his videos as disrespectful to local customs, while Russian diplomats have warned citizens against similar behaviour abroad.

Conditions within Philippine detention centres are frequently criticised by human rights observers for overcrowding and limited facilities, factors that could heighten stress or health risks for detainees. Though these circumstances have not been specifically confirmed in Zdorovetskiy's case, they contribute to the growing concern expressed by figures like Jackson.

Uncertain Outlook

With deportation suspended and both Russia and the US unwilling to intervene, Zdorovetskiy appears set to remain in custody as his trial continues. If convicted, he may serve his full sentence locally before any future deportation is reconsidered.

For now, claims that he faces imminent danger or deteriorating health remain unverified. The 'grim' narrative surrounding his detention largely reflects speculation and awareness of the Philippines' challenging jail conditions rather than confirmed evidence.