World Champion in 3 Divisions Anatoly Malykhin Prepares Next Challenge

Jakarta, Beritasatu.com – MMA One world champion in three divisions Anatoly Malykhin talks about his next challenge. Malykhin managed to make history as the ruler of three divisions in One Championship, after winning the middleweight MMA belt at One 166: Qatar in early March.

He also holds that title after defeating Reinier de Ridder as the former division leader via TKO in the third round. He faced resistance and almost fell in the early rounds, although he was able to get back up.

“I didn't have any big problems, but Reinier hit me once and shook me. It felt like he was able to knock me down a bit. “It was the first time I had fallen in my career, and the hardest part was to get back into the fight and win,” said Malykhin.

“I think he is a solid fighter. “He still deserves another chance, but first he has to have two fights and go on a winning streak.”

Malykhin is ready to meet De Ridder again for a trilogy duel at middle class. But before that, he plans to first defend his heavyweight belt, which is the target of many challengers.

“I want to have a fight at heavyweight, then one at light heavyweight, and I'll be ready for a trilogy at middleweight,” said Malykhin.

Even though Malykhin was happy to get the three gold belts, he was not satisfied with his achievements. The 36-year-old feels better with each appearance, and he has no plans to rest after this.

“I think history will be made when we win four gold belts, and one more in boxing. That will only make history, but for now this is just the beginning of our journey,” he continued.

Malykhin admitted that there are two fighters he is targeting to defend his title next. “Right now I see two options. That is “Reug Reug” Oumar Kane or Amir Aliakbari. I don't know which one,” Malykhin said.

“Aliakbari is clearly more deserving of the rematch at the moment, because he has four wins in a row and that is very serious,” he continued.

Aliakbari and “Reug Reug” have impressive physiques with dangerous abilities, but Malykhin is not afraid to face either of them.

The Russian fighter has a perfect 14-0 record, and a 100 percent finish rate. He even bet on himself to defeat these two challengers in one night.