In a groundbreaking move, Anatoly Malykhin is on a quest to become MMA’s first-ever champion across three weight classes. His next target? The middleweight crown, currently held by Reinier de Ridder. This much-anticipated clash is set as the headline event at ONE 166, which will be held in Lusail, Qatar, as announced by the promotion on Thursday.
Currently holding a top-15 spot in two weight divisions according to MMA Hook Global Rankings, Malykhin has already secured the heavyweight and light heavyweight titles in a mere five fights with ONE Championship. On March 1st, he’ll attempt to make history by dropping to middleweight to vie for his third championship belt.
In the ONE Championship, the middleweight category caps at 205 pounds, a weight determined by their unique no-dehydration rule, while the limit for light heavyweight stands at 225 pounds.
De Ridder, with a record of 16-1, had once held titles in both the 205 and 225-pound divisions until his light heavyweight title was taken by Malykhin in December 2022. Now, de Ridder faces the undefeated Russian juggernaut, who currently boasts a 13-0 record, in a bid to defend his remaining title.
Since his induction into ONE, Malykhin has maintained a staggering 100 percent knockout rate, overpowering notable fighters like Arjan Bhullar and Kirill Grishenko. At 35 years old, this formidable athlete has never had a fight last the full duration, cementing his status as a knockout specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Anatoly Malykhin Reinier de Ridder ONE 166
Who is Anatoly Malykhin and what is his goal in the upcoming ONE Championship?
Anatoly Malykhin is an MMA fighter aiming to become the world’s first three-division champion. He plans to challenge Reinier de Ridder for the ONE Championship middleweight title at ONE 166 in Lusail, Qatar.
What titles does Anatoly Malykhin currently hold in the ONE Championship?
Anatoly Malykhin currently holds the ONE heavyweight and light heavyweight titles, which he achieved in just five bouts under the ONE Championship banner.
When and where is the fight between Anatoly Malykhin and Reinier de Ridder taking place?
The fight is scheduled for March 1st and will be the main event of ONE 166, taking place in Lusail, Qatar.
What is unique about Anatoly Malykhin’s record in ONE Championship?
Malykhin has a 100 percent knockout rate since joining ONE Championship, never having a fight go the full distance.
What is the weight limit for the middleweight class in the ONE Championship?
In the ONE Championship, the middleweight class has a weight limit of 205 pounds, adhering to their no-dehydration system. The light heavyweight limit is set at 225 pounds.
What is Reinier de Ridder’s record and history in the ONE Championship?
Reinier de Ridder has a record of 16-1 and was a former two-division champion at 205 and 225 pounds before losing his light heavyweight title to Malykhin in December 2022.
More about Anatoly Malykhin Reinier de Ridder ONE 166
- Anatoly Malykhin Challenges Reinier de Ridder for Third ONE Title
- ONE 166 Event Details
- Reinier de Ridder’s ONE Championship Profile
- MMA Hook Global Rankings
- ONE Championship Middleweight Rules
5 comments
Reinier de Ridder better watch out, malykhin is comin for that title. exciting stuff!
MMA got drama, like a movie plot! Can’t wait for ONE 166, gonna be epic!
anatoly malykhin is on fire! 3 divisions?! im here for it. knockout king!
Didn’t no that middleweight limit was 205 pounds, that’s diff from other leagues. cool rule!
Malykhin ain’t playin, he’s a force to be reckoned with in the cage. #MalykhinForThreeBelts