Two-division MMA king Anatoly Malykhin reveals heartfelt wish for his family in 2025: "If God wills"

Reigning ONE light heavyweight and middleweight MMA world champion Anatoly Malykhin has enjoyed enormous success since debuting in ONE Championship in March 2021. However, his biggest goal for the new year revolves around his family.

In an interview with the world's largest martial arts promotion, Malykhin shared that he and his wife Anita are hoping to have a second child, saying:

"Outside the ring, my wife and I hope to grow our family. If God wills, we'd love to have a second child."

2024 was a landmark year for the 36-year-old Russian behemoth. He became the first fighter in ONE's history to hold three MMA world titles simultaneously when he claimed the 205-pound MMA crown from Dutch rival Reinier de Ridder at ONE 166: Qatar in March.

At ONE 169 on Nov. 8, Malykhin's reign over the heavyweight MMA division was challenged by Senegalese wrestling machine Oumar 'Reug Reug' Kane.

Though he showcased immense heart in their five-round war, the One Chance Team and Tiger Muay Thai fighter ultimately lost his 26 pounds of heavyweight MMA gold to Kane via split decision.

---

Anatoly Malykhin determined to reclaim heavyweight MMA crown from Oumar Kane

Anatoly Malykhin's shocking defeat to Oumar Kane marked the first defeat in his 15-fight MMA career, but he is adamant to prove that he can reclaim the throne soon.

Red Corner MMA recently uploaded some behind-the-scenes footage of Malykhin at ONE 169, which includes him vowing to amend his mistakes against Kane. 'Sladkiy' shared:

"I felt like I lacked some physique. Now, I just need to focus. It felt great to win three belts, but I still need to focus on one. I am the heavyweight champion. I know where I made a mistake."

Watch the entire video below: