In a previously announced title fight, newly M-1 Global-signedАлександр “Drago” Волков (24-6-0, M-1: 8-3-0), ОХУ-, takes on Estonian challengerDenis Smoldaraev (11-1-0, M-1: 7-1-0) for the vacant M-1 Challenge heavyweight championship.
Barnaoui (12-3-0, M-1: 2-2-0), Парис гарч тэмцэх, will be making his first title defense against a dangerous challenger. After defeating previously undefeatedМаксим Divnich(10-0-0) (see picture below) by way of a first-round stoppage via punches, May 2, 2015 үедM-1 Challenge 57, Barnaoui dropped down in weight and he unsuccessfully challenged M-1 Challenge featherweight championИван Buchingerthis past October by five-round decision atM-1 Challenge 57.
Belarus-native Damkovsky (20-9-0, M-1: 10-6-0), shown below on mat, is riding a four-fight win streak to become the top contender going into his title fight showdown with Barnaoui.