The individual who last defeated Alex Pereira in the kickboxing ring has been quietly transitioning into the world of professional MMA to gain more experience.
Artem Vakhitov held the Glory Kickboxing light heavyweight world title from 2016 to 2019 until he lost it to “Poatan” in January 2021. He regained the title by winning a rematch against Pereira later that year before Pereira moved to the UFC.
With a kickboxing record of 23-6 and five Glory title defenses, Vakhitov is recognized as one of the most accomplished and dangerous strikers today. While his MMA debut last year ended in a TKO loss due to a dislocated elbow, he has bounced back impressively this year with two first-round stoppage victories.
Having had a successful amateur career with numerous submission wins, Vakhitov is certainly a rising star to watch.
Former Glory Champion Who Beat Pereira Joins Forces With ‘Triple C’
In a recent development, Vakhitov has joined forces with a new coach to further his MMA skills.
Former UFC double champion Henry Cejudo posted a video with Vakhitov on social media, hinting that they may have their sights set on Alex Pereira.
“Allow me to introduce who’s training with the ‘Triple C’ next,” said Cejudo. “I train the best in the world, but now I’ve got the six-time Glory world champ, the last person to defeat Alex Pereira, and we have a message for you!”
Vakhitov responded with a simple “Chama,” and Cejudo concluded with “We comin’.”
Following the successful transitions of former Glory champions Pereira and Israel Adesanya to the UFC, could history be repeating itself once more?
