Anatoly Malykhin, former ONE Heavyweight Champion, reclaimed the title after a dramatic loss to Reug Reug, marking a historic moment in the sport. His victory in Lumpinee Stadium on May 15, 2026, was a testament to his dominance and resilience. Despite the early struggles, Malykhin gradually adapted, landing clean combinations and timing Kane’s entries. In the final round, his right-hand strike cracked Reug Reug, sending him to the canvas. Afterward, he retired from MMA, citing exhaustion and love for the sport. Malykhin’s career highlights include being the first simultaneous three-division champion in ONE history and holding multiple promotional records. He also won two titles over former champions, showcasing his unique legacies. This victory reflects broader trends in MMA, where stoppage wins continue to define success. As he retires, Malykhin’s journey underscores the sport’s evolution, balancing tradition with innovation. Personally, I think Malykhin’s story is a reminder that even legendary figures face challenges to preserve their legacy.
