A new viral sensation has taken over TikTok and other social media platforms, featuring Russian dancer Ruslan Aidaev performing the whisk dance in a bright blue shirt and grey sweatpants.
The video, recorded at the Starlight Ballroom Dance Club in Moscow, shows Aidaev executing precise, flowing movements in front of a group of students. The clip is set to Assumptions by Sam Gellaitry, adding a hypnotic layer to the choreography that has captivated viewers globally.
Aidaev’s fluidity and command of ballroom technique have sparked a massive dance challenge. Users across platforms are attempting to recreate the now-iconic performance, dubbing it the “2025 summer emote.”
Known now as the “blue shirt guy,” Aidaev has become an unexpected face of internet dance culture. Born on 24 December 1986 in Murmansk, Russia, he holds an impressive résumé. He is a Murmansk Champion, Northwest Russia Champion, and a past US National Amateur Latin Champion. With his partner Valeriya, he has been a finalist and semi-finalist in all major global amateur Latin championships, including Blackpool, the UK Championships, and the German Open.
As the dance spreads, the whisk step—traditionally used in waltz and Viennese waltz—has found a modern revival. Originally a way to change direction on the ballroom floor, it’s now a global internet sensation.
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