ONE Two-Division MMA World Champion Anatoly Malykhin Enjoying Traveling Ahead of Return
ONE two-division world champion Anatoly Malykhin is usinghis time away from mixed martial arts to reenergize himself with traveling and train for his anticipated return.
The Russian megastar, who holds both the Light Heavyweight and Middleweight MMA world titles, endured his only defeat of his career in his most recent bout to Oumar Kane via split decision, losing his ONE Heavyweight MMA world title at ONE 169 last November.
The 37-year-old star has been making the best of his break after years of nonstop training and competing by reconnecting with nature and family.
“Everything’s been going well in 2025 – just like it did in 2024 and 2023. Life is steady. I’m training, focusing on my family. We love each other deeply as a family,” he said.
Malykhin, who has spent the past few years at the famed Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, has been touring Thailand and has grown a new admiration for the country’s beautiful natural scenery
“We love to travel – especially by car. We’ve driven through almost all of Thailand, from south to north. It’s a beautiful country, full of contrast, full of smiles. I’m grateful. Thailand has given me a lot of opportunities. I truly appreciate that,” he said.
Whenever Malykhin returns, there will be many exciting fights for him. While the Russian may be eyeing a rematch with Kane for the ONE Heavyweight MMA world title, he could also end up defending one of his world title belts against a challenger like undefeated Turkish star Shamil Erdogan.
