Anatoly Malykhin shares affinity for fellow heavyweight Kang Ji Won: “I love this Korean fella”

Reigning and undisputed ONE heavyweight and light heavyweight MMA world champion ‘Sladkiy’ Anatoly Malykhin has to be one of the most happy-go-lucky fighters in all of combat sports. The super dangerous Russian star can always be seen with a huge smile on his face.

Of course, this is in stark contrast to his demeanor in the cage, where he’s a fierce destroyer out to obliterate anyone in his path. There’s not a lot of guys Malykhin likes when he’s standing face to face with them in the Circle. So if you’re on his good side, then you’re probably a really likable guy.

Such is the case with South Korean heavy hitter Kang Ji Won. Malykhin came up with Kang in ONE Championship, as the two met backstage at one of the events. ‘Sladkiy’ immediately took a liking.

In a recent interview with ONE Championship, Malykhin expressed his affinity for Kang.

‘Sladkiy’ said:

“Yes, I love this Korean fella. He is a heavyweight from Korea, and he always knows how to knock out his opponents unexpectedly.”

“In general, he is very kind. We always support each other before fights and write encouraging messages to each other. I am very happy that he will fight on this card. I will be happy to come and watch to support him.”

Kang is one of the most exciting heavyweights in ONE Championship, and is an upset specialist. He is 3-1 in the promotion, with notable victories over Paul Elliott, Amir Aliakbari and Mehdi Barghi. The South Korean star will get the chance to score another win when he returns to action in a couple of weeks’ time.

‘Mighty Warrior’ is set to face the debuting Ben Tynan at ONE Fight Night 16: Haggerty vs. Andrade on Prime Video, which broadcasts live from the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, November 3rd.

Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action of ONE Fight Night 16: Haggerty vs. Andrade live and absolutely free with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.