Promoter Vladimir Khryunov in a conversation with , he said that the Russian heavyweight fight Anatoly Malykhina And Sergei Kharitonov reportedly sparked public interest by noting that fighters should not exchange barbs.
On March 1 in Qatar, Malykhin defeated the Dutchman Rainier de Ridder in the third round and won the ONE middleweight belt; before that, the Russian won the titles in the light heavyweight and heavyweight categories. Malykhin, 36, has 14 victories in MMA. Kharitonov, 43, has 34 victories and eight defeats in MMA. Kharitonov’s last fight, which is listed in the statistics of the Sherdog profile portal, took place in September 2023.
– I don’t like controversy. Who simply did not mention Malykhin? For about a year I talked with him and the head of his promotion about the possibility of organizing a fight in Russia. Anatoly is doing well, he is now champion in three weight categories. And we said that if they let him go, we would arrange a fight for him with anyone, including Sergei Kharitonov. I am against such an exchange (of impartial statements addressed to each other). It’s better to meet and talk, and if there is an opportunity to arrange a fight, the fans will take advantage of it.
— Have you communicated with Sergei Kharitonov about the possibility of a fight with Malykhin?
– No. I spoke with Malykhin. He promised to speak to his promotion management to see if they would release him or not. It’s obvious they won’t let me go. He is champion in three weight categories, he has obligations. The promotion has invested very well in it. In general, let’s wait, these are just intentions for now. But I would like to warn against barbaric polemics.
—Are you interested in organizing a fight for Kharitonov?
— I haven’t spoken about this subject yet. I also have great respect for him. But I think a fight between Kharitonov and Malykhin would attract attention,” Khryunov told .
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Source : MatchTV
I am Ashley Ortiz and I am a professional journalist working for Athletistic. My specialty is in sports journalism, particularly boxing. I have written articles for some of the most renowned publications on the subject, and my work has been featured across both print and digital media platforms.
