“He has my respect” - Anatoly Malykhin explains why he can appreciate Reinier de Ridder and his trash talk

Russian knockout machine Anatoly Malykhin has expressed respect for his upcoming ONE on Prime Video 5 opponent Reinier de Ridder and does not mind the Dutchman's trash-talk. Malykhin is the ONE interim heavyweight world champion and has regard for De Ridder's two world titles in ONE.

In an interview with ONE Championship, 'Sladkiy' explained:

"In his trash talk, De Ridder never touched his opponents’ families, religions, wives, and children - for that, he has my respect. We need trash talk, but it is not okay to cross the line. When it is funny and fuels some extra interest, I like that kind of thing. I like guys who can do the talking, who give a show before the fight. He is good at it."

Both the main event fighters have talked trash at each other but clearly respect one another's game. Neither fighter has gotten personal with the verbal attacks. Instead, it's been largely cordial.

However, once the door locks in the headlining fight at ONE on Prime Video 5, the pair will go to war. ONE on Prime Video 5: De Ridder vs. Malykhin broadcasts live on Friday, December 2 (US primetime) and is free for fans in the United States and Canada with an Amazon Prime subscription.

---

Anatoly Malykhin says this will be event of the year

The unbeaten Anatoly Malykhin has won the vast majority of his fights by way of knockout. He will face undefeated two-division world champion Reinier de Ridder, who is a submission specialist. Both will be hunting for the finish in this main event showdown.

While speaking to ONE Championship, 'Sladkiy' explained that ONE on Prime Video 5 will be one of the most exciting events of the year:

“I’m excited about challenges like this. He’s a great fighter, a great athlete. I will be happy to share the circle with him. I’m sure it will be the event of the year."

Anatoly Malykhin feels the fight will be a battle of courage and skill:

“I will try to display my best skills, my courage, and I will try to impress the audience. They expect a good show. I’m going to win. It will be a noble battle.”