Artem Vakhitov is determined to settle his rivalry with Alex Pereira once and for all.
Despite making a strong impression on Dana White’s Contender Series and receiving an offer from the premier mixed martial arts organization, the Russian fighter chose to decline the UFC contract.
Instead, the accomplished striking specialist has decided to take part in one of the most significant bouts in recent kickboxing history.
Scheduled for Saturday night, Vakhitov will step into the ring to face Rico Verhoeven at Glory 100 in a highly anticipated confrontation between two prominent figures in combat sports.
Artem Vakhitov Expresses Desire for MMA Bout Against Alex Pereira
Should he emerge victorious against Verhoeven, Artem Vakhitov has set his sights on a clash with Alex Pereira.
The two previously competed against each other twice in kickboxing, with Pereira winning their first encounter and Vakhitov securing the victory in the rematch.
With their head-to-head record tied, Vakhitov expressed a strong desire to compete against the powerful Brazilian striker again, stating he would welcome the fight under either MMA or kickboxing rules.
He explained in an interview: “It was a very great story with Alex. People really remember it very well, and now Alex has become a superstar of the UFC. I’m really ready to fight him again, even in MMA rules.”
Regarding a potential third kickboxing match, Vakhitov added: “In kickboxing, we have our own story. It was a great story; why not make a trilogy there? Some people think it was not my win because it was a close fight, so I think it would be a good trilogy. I’m pretty sure the win will be on my side in our third fight.”
Vakhitov Also Interested in Glory Last Heavyweight Standing Tournament
While securing a fight with Pereira is a key ambition, Vakhitov’s goals extend beyond the Brazilian. The skilled striker is also keen on participating in the Glory Last Heavyweight Standing tournament.
He enthused about the possibility: “With great pleasure, I would like to join. I’ve already watched the first round at the last Glory event. As I’ve said many times, the weight is not so important, I don’t put too much attention on that. As you could see in the last round, the weight is not important.”
Gareth Pendleton