Vodun was actively suppressed during colonial times. "Many Sorcerers were either killed or imprisoned, and their shrines destroyed, because of the threat they posed to Euro-Christian/Muslim dominion. This forced some of the Dahomeans to form Vodou Orders and to create underground societies, hide the identity of priests, in order to continue the veneration of their ancestors, and the worship of their powerful gods." 

Vodun was again suppressed during the Marxist regime. However, it has been freely practiced in Benin since a democratic government was installed there in 1989. Vodun was formally recognized as Benin's official religion in 1996-FEB. It is also followed by most of the adults in Haiti. It can be found in many of the large cities in North America, particularly in the American South.

Today over 60 million people practice Vodun worldwide. Religions similar to Vodun can be found in South America where they are called Umbanda, Quimbanda or Candomble.  

Today, there are two virtually unrelated forms of the religion:

The actual religion, Vodun practiced in Benin, Dominican Republic, Ghana, Haiti, Togo and various centers in the US - largely where Haitian refuges have settled. With the agreement of one of these community, "VooDoo Fight Production" has been created and responsible of the production, promotion and organization of combat show in Dominican Republic.
 

Sorcerer, Guard and Priest:

Sorcerer or Witch: In this religion, this is the most popular rule, every disciple need the help of the sorcerer. This is the person make the spell, health the person or send malediction. He is the principal representative of the religion in the community.

Priest Guard: This is the protector of the priest. In this religion, he makes everything to protect his master. The priest guard is not the most stronger or the best fighter, is the most loyal subject and have the facility to integrate a group. One of this principal works is to conserve the secret the identity of the priest. In each representation, fight or ceremony, the face of the master is hided and never talk to the public. If one person make or try to make the revelation, he will be challenged for the honor. For the protector, the honor code is very important, more important at his own life.

Priest: This is the most important and secret person in this religion. Only his guard knows the real identity of the priest. He is the idol of the disciples and adepts. If the identity is reveled, all the region and structure are in danger. A priest gives his succession in secret at other person, member of his clan and normally is son or a person ear to him.