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Anatoly Malykhin is prepared to respond to Shamil Erdogan's challenge for the ONE Middleweight MMA World Championship. The Russian champion acknowledges his old rival's impressive performance at ONE 168: Denver, where Erdogan dominated Aung La N Sang in a 213.75-pound catchweight bout on September 6.
From the start of the fight, Erdogan showcased his power, overwhelming the former two-division ONE MMA World Champion. His superior striking and grappling led to a second-round TKO victory over "The Burmese Python." This decisive win cemented Erdogan's reputation as a top contender in the middleweight division, drawing attention to his ambitions for Malykhin's belt.
After the bout, Erdogan quickly called out Malykhin, seeking a shot at the Russian’s middleweight title. However, despite the Turkish fighter’s dominance in Denver, Malykhin remains unfazed. The reigning ONE Middleweight, Light Heavyweight, and Interim Heavyweight World Champion is known for his remarkable strength across multiple weight classes and doesn’t shy away from tough challenges.
“It was a good fight, great fight, an excellent win for Shamil — bright, dynamic, and he’s got a strong punch and solid grappling,” Malykhin stated. Yet, he made it clear that he’s ready to face any opponent. “When it comes to a fight with me, I’ll be ready for the grappling, striking, and I’ll be in top shape physically.”
Malykhin recognizes the danger Erdogan brings, especially since the Turkish powerhouse defeated him in a past wrestling match. However, the Russian champ is confident in his skills and standing in ONE Championship.
“If Shamil says I came into his territory, then he’s stepped into mine. I’m the champion here, and ONE Championship is my home,” he declared.
Malykhin is poised to defend his middleweight title, dismissing any doubts about a potential change in leadership.
“We don’t need a new champion; we love the old one. Shamil, nothing’s going to change. It’s going to be like always — and still!”
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