The Kurgan, originally named Vitor, was born in the land that would eventually be called Russia, near the Caspian Sea. When he was a child, Vitor was swept away from his family in a powerful flood. He awoke some time afterward and was taken into a tribe of the infamously vicious and cruel Kurgan people. His first death occurred in 970 BC when his adopted father crushed his head in with a rock. Upon returning to life, Vitor forced his adopted father to swallow a searing hot stone, killing him. Kurgan's only friend and immortal mentor was The Bedouin, who he eventually betrayed and killed so he could get the power of his Quickening.

The Kurgan's fighting style relies on his size and strength as he prefers to use his brute striking ability to wear down his opponent's over a more graceful fighting style.

The Kurgan uses a highly unique, and most likely one of a kind, two handed broadsword. The sword can be completely broken down and reassembled. He carries it around in a case with him.