“No real threat” - Anatoly Malykhin unfazed by looming heavyweight MMA world title defense against ‘Reug Reug’

Reigning and undisputed ONE heavyweight, light heavyweight, and middleweight MMA world champion 'Sladkiy' Anatoly Malykhin of Russia isn't at all worried about his next foe, Senegalese wrestling sensation Oumar 'Reug Reug' Kane.

In fact, the 36-year-old Kemerovo native believes 'Reug Reug' is light work.

Speaking to ONE Championship in a recent interview, Malykhin criticized Kane's fighting style, and reassured his fans that they have nothing to worry about.

'Sladkiy' stated:

"‘Reug Reug’ usually falls apart after the first anyway – hands drop, starts grabbing at opponent’s shorts or gloves. Kind of a dirty fighter, really. No real threat, though."

Malykhin joined the world's largest martial arts organization in March 2021, and has put together six spectacular performances. He is unbeaten in ONE Championship, with all six of his wins coming by way of knockout.

He currently holds the heavyweight, light heavyweight, and middleweight MMA belts.

Meanwhile, 'Reug Reug' is a winner of five of his last six in ONE Championship, including impressive performances in his last three outings. Victories over highly regarded fighters Batradz Gazzaev and Jasur Mirzamukhamedov, and a one-sided beatdown of BJJ legend Marcus 'Buchecha' Almeida have earned 'Reug Reug' a shot at the heavyweight gold.

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'Sladkiy' Anatoly Malykhin puts heavyweight MMA world title on the line against Oumar 'Reug Reug' Kane at ONE 169: Atlanta

Champ-champ-champ 'Sladkiy' Anatoly Malykhin of Russia is set to defend his ONE heavyweight MMA world championship against Senegalese wrestling standout Oumar 'Reug Reug' Kane.

The two lock horns at ONE 169: Atlanta, when ONE Championship heads to the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia for its second U.S. show this year.

The event broadcasts live on Friday, November 8th. Fans in the United States and Canada who can't watch the fight in person can catch all the action live and absolutely free with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.