Irson Kudikova is a Russian pop singer, model and former female athlete. In March 2009, The Globe tabloid reported that actor Mickey Rourke proposed marriage to Kudikova. She was quoted as saying, "He told me, 'You're a fantastic woman. I want to marry you.'"MosNews.com: Mickey Rourke to Marry Blond Russian Singer (March 27, 2009)

Kudikova, age 26, reportedly spent time with Rourke, age 56, in Moscow while he was researching for his role as a villain in the sequel to Iron Man.

Mickey Rourke will play a Russian villain called "Whiplash" in the sequel to Iron Man.EW.com: Iron Man 2: Mickey Rourke closes deal to play villain, Whiplash (March 11, 2009) The character is said to be based on the Marvel Comics' character Crimson Dynamo.EW.com: Iron Man 2: Mickey Rourke closes deal to play villain, Whiplash (March 11, 2009)