A jaw-dropping underwater encounter off the coast of Russia has left the internet stunned. A video posted on X (formerly Twitter) shows the terrifying moment a snorkeler provoked an octopus—and ended up fighting for his life.

The incident took place near Primorsky Krai, where the diver was exploring the ocean floor. Equipped with a snorkeling pole, he began poking around a small burrow—apparently the home of a resident octopus.

But the diver didn’t stop there. He reached into the den and pulled the octopus out, clearly disturbing the animal and its habitat. What happened next was captured on camera—and quickly went viral.

Octopus Strikes Back With Ink and Tentacle Attack

The video shows the octopus immediately going on the defensive. It released a cloud of dark ink, temporarily blinding the diver. Then, with surprising speed and precision, it latched onto his hands using its powerful, flexible tentacles.

The situation escalated when the creature wrapped itself around the diver’s neck, climbing toward his face. The diver began to panic, thrashing around underwater while trying to peel the octopus off.

Struggling for air, he finally made it to the surface and continued fighting to break free. After a few intense minutes, the octopus finally let go. It remains unclear whether the diver sustained any injuries, but many online felt he had learned a valuable lesson.

Viral Video Sparks Outrage and Debate

Once the video hit Instagram and X, it spread like wildfire. Viewers were captivated by the footage—and divided in their reactions.

Many people blamed the diver for provoking the animal, calling his actions irresponsible and disrespectful to marine life. Some even joked that the octopus showed remarkable restraint.

One user commented, “Everything in the ocean is designed to keep us out. Stupid humans. Can’t leave well enough alone.”

Another chimed in, “Good lesson taught. Let’s leave them in peace.”

A third wrote simply, “Respect the ocean, dude.”

But the diver wasn’t the only target of criticism. Others questioned the person behind the camera. “Who was filming and didn’t help him?” one viewer asked. Another said, “I was wondering what the cameraman was doing. Help him!”

There were even some who sided with the octopus entirely. One comment read: “Dumbass! I would’ve done more to him if I were that octopus.”

The Common Octopus: Clever, Strong, and Misunderstood

According to marine biologists, the animal involved was likely a common octopus (Octopus vulgaris). While this species is not generally dangerous to humans, it does possess mild venom and is capable of defending itself in powerful ways.

The common octopus can grow up to 4.3 feet in length and weigh between 6.6 to 22 pounds. It has a large, rounded head, keen eyesight, and eight muscular tentacles lined with suction cups that provide an iron grip.

But what really makes this creature stand out is its intelligence and adaptability. Octopuses are masters of camouflage, able to shift color and texture to blend in with coral, sand, or rock. When threatened, they eject ink to distract or confuse predators while they make their escape.

These animals can also squeeze through incredibly narrow spaces, thanks to their soft, boneless bodies. Attacks on humans are extremely rare, and usually happen only when the animal feels cornered or provoked—just like in this viral video.

A Cautionary Tale for Ocean Explorers

Marine experts were quick to weigh in after the video went viral, warning people not to disturb underwater creatures. The ocean is full of intelligent, wild animals, and interactions can go wrong when humans ignore boundaries.

“This is exactly why we stress the importance of respecting marine life,” one biologist wrote. “That octopus wasn’t being aggressive—it was defending its home.”

This incident serves as a stark reminder: the ocean is not a playground. Every creature has its place, and many have defenses far stronger than we expect.

So, next time you’re diving or snorkeling—think twice before poking around a burrow. You might end up face-to-face with one of the ocean’s most fascinating (and formidable) residents.