Vakhitov is a prominent Russian kickboxer and mixed martial artist, born on April 4, 1991. He has recently signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) after his TKO win against Islem Masraf inDana White’s Contender Series and gained recognition for his impressive achievements, including being a two-time Glory Light Heavyweight Champion. Renowned for his exemplary amateur career, he has won multiple world championships in Muay Thai. As of February 2023, he is ranked as the #1 light-heavyweight and #4 pound-for-pound kickboxer in the world by Combat Press, solidifying his status as a significant figure in combat sports.
Early Life
Before pursuing a career in combat sports, Artem Vakhitov was born on April 4, 1991, in Prokopyevsk, Russia. He began his martial arts journey at the age of five under his father’s guidance, initially training in karate. After moving to a new part of the city at eleven, he discovered the Kuzbass Muay Thai gym, where he trained under Vitaly Miller and became a training partner of Artem Levin. Vakhitov holds the esteemed classification of Master of Sports in Muay Thai and is also a classically trained musician.
Kickboxing Career
While Artem Vakhitov has made a significant impact in the world of kickboxing, he first rose to prominence through a successful amateur career, demonstrating exceptional talent and determination from a young age.
Amateur Achievements
Along his journey, he captured multiple titles, including three World Championships and gold at the 2013 World Combat Games, establishing a solid foundation for his future in professional combat sports.
Professional Success
Achievements in Vakhitov’s professional career include two reigns as the Glory Light Heavyweight Champion and a standing as the #1 light-heavyweight and #4 pound-for-pound kickboxer in the world, according to Combat Press.
Professional success for Vakhitov has been marked by a series of impressive wins, including his remarkable performances at Glory 28 where he claimed the Light Heavyweight title and successfully defended it multiple times against formidable opponents. He notably defeated Ariel Machado and reclaimed the title against Alex Pereira with a majority decision. His ability to consistently compete at a high level, even after facing injuries, underscores his resilience and skill in the sport.
Glory Championship Highlights
Some highlights of Artem Vakhitov’s career in the Glory kickboxing organisation include his impressive reign as Light Heavyweight Champion, where he showcased exceptional skills and resilience. He achieved significant victories, including successful title defences against prominent fighters like Zack Mwekassa and Ariel Machado, further solidifying his status in the sport.
Light Heavyweight Title Reign
Glory marked a significant turning point in Vakhitov’s career, as he captured the coveted Light Heavyweight Championship. Throughout his reign, he displayed remarkable striking and tactical prowess, defeating elite contenders and defending his title with precision and confidence.
Second Title Reign
Title defences were a notable aspect of Vakhitov’s successful return to glory after regaining the championship. This period witnessed him triumphing over fierce opponents, including a memorable victory against Alex Pereira, whom he defeated by a majority decision. He exhibited exceptional skill and determination, establishing himself as a dominant force in the division, despite challenges, including injuries that tested his resolve. Vakhitov’s legacy was further enhanced as he became the last fighter to defeat Pereira before he later transitioned to the UFC.
Transition to Mixed Martial Arts
To pursue an exciting new challenge, Artem Vakhitov made his mixed martial arts debut on June 11, 2023, at Open FC 31. Having established himself as a dominant force in kickboxing, he aimed to leverage his extensive striking skills and combat experience in this new arena. With an impressive background, including multiple world championships in amateur muay Thai and his Glory Light Heavyweight Championship reign, Vakhitov’s transition signals his intention to excel in mixed martial arts just as he did in kickboxing.
Achievements and Honors
Despite his young age, Artem Vakhitov has established an impressive record in both amateur and professional combat sports. He is a three-time World Champion and a four-time European Champion in Muay Thai, showcasing his exceptional skill level. In 2013, he claimed the gold medal at the World Combat Games, further solidifying his status in the martial arts community. As a professional fighter, they have captured the Glory Light Heavyweight Championship twice, becoming a formidable presence in the kickboxing arena, ultimately ranking him as the #1 light-heavyweight and #4 pound-for-pound kickboxer globally by Combat Press.
Record Summary
All aspects of Artem Vakhitov’s career exemplify his status as a formidable fighter. He has achieved remarkable success, including winning three world championships and becoming the Glory Light Heavyweight Champion twice. His record features impressive victories, with notable wins over strong opponents like Saulo Cavalari and Alex Pereira. Vakhitov’s expertise in both kickboxing and mixed martial arts has solidified his ranking as the #1 light-heavyweight and #4 pound-for-pound kickboxer in the world as of February 2023.
Final Words
The profile of Artem Vakhitov showcases a highly accomplished Russian kickboxer and mixed martial artist, renowned for his exceptional skills in the Light Heavyweight division. He began his athletic journey in Muay Thai at a young age and quickly ascended through the ranks, securing multiple world championship titles. His professional career has seen him dominate in the Glory promotion, where he captured the Light Heavyweight Championship twice. Vakhitov’s dedication to martial arts and his impressive achievements position him as a significant figure in combat sports today.
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