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UPCOMING EVENT: Nov. 17 – M-1 Challenge 99: Doskalchuk vs. Silander, Nazran, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

In The Rage…… Urs Pablo Ortmann

October 17, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (October 16, 2018) – Undefeated Swiss welterweight prospect Urs Pablo Ortmann (8-0-0, M-1: 2-0-0) steps up in class November 2 to challenge Russian veteran Sergey Romanov (14-3-0, M-1: 5-2-0) at M-1 Challenge 98 in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov (11-0-0, M-1: 9-0-0) takes on Brazilian challenger Bruno Blindado Silva (18-6-0, M-1: 1-0-0) in the M-1 Challenge 98 main event.

M-1 Challenge 98 will be live-streamed from Russia in high definition onwww.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register at www.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets. M-1 Challenge 97 will also be is available onwww.FITE.TV (preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card).

Ortmann, a Muay Thai specialist, recently stepped into The Rage to discuss his ascending mixed-martial-arts career, including his fight versus Romanov:

Urs Pablo, you’ve got a double name, how do your friends call you?

UPO: “My friends call me just Urs and Pablo is my fight name. Earlier there was a difference between the real me and my fighting alter ego; stepping into the cage I used to go wild. Today it’s different, now I do my best to stay calm when I fight. My goal now is to stay effective and demonstrate techniques in the clearest way possible.”

How did you start your MMA career and what do you like the most about fighting?

UPO: “Actually, I started my martial arts career only when I turned 21. Before that I played basketball. At 21, Gabriel Sabo helped me join the fighting world. Initially, I was not going to compete, but my trainer, Zyber Ruday, had seen my potential and helped me grow. I love both striking and grappling. In my career I have more submission victories, only because of the fact that I felt I was better on the ground than my opponents.”

What can you tell us about MMA in Switzerland? Who is the most noticeable fighter?

UPO: “Yasubey Enomoto is a role model in MMA for me and a good friend of mine. MMA has been developing in Switzerland rapidly lately, but still it’s popularity can’t be compared to what we see in Russia. Anyway, there are MMA gyms in almost every city and they have many fighters with potential.”

How did you get to M-1 Global and how do you like fighting in Russia?

UPO: “Before joining M-1 Global I’d already been to Russia once at Battle in the Mountains in Ingushetia, I loved it and it became my goal to fight in front of this amazing crowd against some top opponents.

“I worked very hard and I won all my MMA, K-1 and Muay Thai fights, so First MMA Management got interested in me, and very soon after signing with them I got my first fight in M-1 Global. I find it excellent that MMA has so much respect in Russia and that it is supported at such a high level that you can even see the President at some events. I have a great experience with Russian fans, who are very respectful. After my fights I’ve seen that they understand this sport really well, so I love fighting in Russia.”

Who would you like to fight the most in M-1 Global?

UPO: “I would love to fight Alexey Kunchenko. I’ve seen many fights of his and it would be a tough challenge for me. I’m happy that he signed with the UFC and I hope one day I can follow him.”

What do you think about your upcoming fight against Sergey Kunchenko?

UPO: “Sergey Romanov is one of the most dangerous welterweights on the M-1 Global roster. In his last fight he made some mistakes and I would say just defeated himself. M-1 Global fans will love our fight and I’m sure that the winner should become the next title contender. I suppose the winner will face Maxim Grabovich in the fight for the vacant title.

“I know this is going to be a tough fight. A knockout victory would be awesome, but I’m open to any opportunity to finish this fight. As always, I’ll start pushing my opponent from the opening bell.”

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Nov. 2 – M-1 Challenge 98: Frolov vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

Growing Russia vs. Brazil MMA rivalry continues

October 10, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

Artem Frolov – Bruno Blindado Silva

M-1 Challenge middleweight championship

Nov. 2 at M-1 Challenge 98 in Chelyabinsk, Russia

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (October 9, 2018) – The growing mixed-martial-arts rivalry between Russian and Brazilian fighters continues November 2, when undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov throws-down with leading challenger Bruno Blindado Silva, in the M-1 Challenge 98 main event at Chelyabinsk, Russia.

M-1 Challenge 98 will be live-streamed from Russia in high definition on www.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register at www.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets. M-1 Challenge 97 will also be isavailable on www.FITE.TV (preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card).

The 27-year-old Frolov (11-0-0, M-1: 9-0-0), fighting out of Russia, signed a UFC contract and he was scheduled to fight last month at UFC Moscow. He withdrew due to injury and now will make his second M-1 Challenge middleweight title defense against Silva.

Silva (18-6-0, M-1: 1-0-0) became to top contender by knocking out Russian MMA star Alexander Shlemenko (56-11-1, M-1: 6-1-0) in the opening round of M-1 Challenge 93 this past June. The heavy-handed Brazilian fighter has stopped 15 of his 18 defeated opponents to date.

“Bruno Silva is a worthy title challenger, who made a big statement earlier this year,” Frolov said. “Unfortunately, I could not debut in the UFC because of an aggravated old injury, but now everything is fine, and the injury is healed. I’ve been preparing routinely, paying attention to all aspects of the fight and concentrating on my cardio ahead of a five-round bout.

“I don’t consider this fight as revenge for Alexander Shlemenko, I just want to fight under the Russian flag and prove that Russia is a top-country in the MMA world. Victory in this fight can become a launching pad for the winner, but you don’t win fights with words. We are going to fight and on November 2nd we’ll see everything in The Rage at M-1 Challenge 98 in Chelyabinsk!”

“I am very happy that my third fight in Russia will be in Chelyabinsk again,” Silva countered. “This is a special city for me, twice I won there via knockout and on November 2nd I’m going to knock my opponent out again. It’s not easy to compete in Russia. Long flights, jet lag and cold climate make everything more difficult, but this is the part of the game. I love Russia because this country has changed my life.

“Artem Frolov is a strong fighter and great champion. I’m not used to watching my opponents’ previous fights much, but from the videos I have seen, I can say that he has good cardio and wrestling skills. I am ready to become the world champion, which was always a dream of mine and soon this dream can come true. I respect Frolov, but he has something what I need. I hope he is ready for a war because I’m going to take this belt from him. I am a fighter who is always looking for a knockout. Fifteen times I knocked my opponents out and at M-1 Challenge 98 I’m ready to brawl with Artem as much as it takes to become the champion.”

Additional fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

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Nov. 2 – M-1 Challenge 98: Frolov vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov defends vs. Bruno Blindado Silva

October 4, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

Nov. 2 at M-1 Challenge 98 in Chelyabinsk, Russia

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (October 2, 2018) — Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov will put his title belt on the line November 2, when he takes on challenger Bruno Blindado Silva, headlining M-1 Challenge 98 in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

M-1 Challenge 98 will be live-streamed from Russia in high definition on www.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register at www.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets. M-1 Challenge 97 will also be is available on www.FITE.TV(preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card).

The 27-year-old Frolov (11-0-0, M-1: 9-0-0), fighting out of Russia, is one of the strongest Russian middleweights, as well as arguably the most well-rounded fighter in that weight class. He has an outstanding takedowns and ground game, but his striking game shouldn’t be overlooked. Nine of his 11 opponents to date haven’t reached the finish, five stopped by knockout and four by submission. In short, Frolov is an extremely dangerous fighter, evident by his perfect professional record.

Frolov (on top) has a super ground attack

Silva (18-6-0, M-1: 1-0-0) earned his title shot in sensational fashion, knocking out MMA star Alexander Shlemenko (57-10-0) in the opening round of M-1 Challenge 93 this past June. The power-punching Brazilian embraced his underdog role, shockingly blasting Shlemenko (pictured below) at will. Silva’s lethal punching has resulted in 15 of his 18 victims being stopped.

Additional fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

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Nov. 2 – M-1 Challenge 98: Frolov vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

M-1, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia, UFC

Fighting in UFC dream come true for M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov

September 7, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

Sept. 15 at UFC Moscow vs. C.B. Dollaway

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (September 5, 2018) – Fighting in the UFC is a dream come true for undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov (11-0-0, M-1: 8-0-0), who will make his UFC debut September 15, fighting on the UFC Moscow card at Olympic Stadium in Moscow.

Frolov recently agreed on short notice (2 weeks) to replace injured Omari Ashkedov against veteran American fighter C.B. “The Doberman” Dollaway (17-8-0).

Fighting at home in Russia, the 26-year-old Frolov won his M-1 Challenge title belt last October, when he took a unanimous decision from Caio Magalhaes at M-1 Challenge 84. This past June at M-1 Challenge 93, Frolov made his first and lone title defense to date against Joe Riggs, who suffered a knee injury that led to a doctor’s stoppage in the second round.

Yesterday, Frolov sat down for a one-on-one interview:

How long have you working on a deal to sign with UFC?

AF: “My manager has been working on signing me with the UFC for a while, but until the last few days, we had no solid agreement. A few days ago, they finally offered me a contract and asked to step in to replace an injured fighter at UFC Moscow.

“I thought it over and decided it was a great opportunity to join the UFC, which I did not want to miss. I would not say this contract was a surprise for me, people have been working on it, so I was ready.”

How does it feel to sign with UFC?

AF: “I’m excited to sign with the best promotion in the world, but I know that my debut fight won’t be easy, I’m stepping in on a short notice just two weeks before the show. I was going to defend my belt in M-1 Global in a couple months, so now I need to cut weight fast. The most difficult thing is not just to cut weight, but afterwards to recover well. In the UFC, IVs are banned and you have to be extremely careful with supplements you take to recover.”

What shape are you in for this fight considering only two-week’s notice?

AF: “I was preparing for a fight in M-1 Global, so I’m in good shape. We are going to work on my speed now but first, I have to cut weight. Once in my career I took a fight on a short notice, I had three weeks to prepare and I won that fight by TKO in the second round.”

What do you know about your opponent, C.B. Dollaway?

AF: “I’ve seen a couple of C.B. Dollaway’s UFC fights, but I have never considered him as my opponent, so did not pay too much attention to him. There are many good fighters in the UFC, so I can’t say that I know a lot about my opponent. We don’t have not enough time to concentrate on him, so we’ll concentrate on me.”

When do you feel you can challenge the top UFC fighters in your weight class?

AF: “I’m not going to demand huge fights with the top opponents in the UFC. I’ll take my time and be ready to fight any opponent they’ll give me. I need time to get used to new conditions, tune up my preparation, and put in order the whole system and then I will be ready for any challenges.

“Everything is in our hands; nothing is impossible. If someone wants something badly, sets a goal and works hard to achieve it, he or she will succeed. I’m just a regular guy who had a dream to fight in the UFC and I made it. Dream big, set goals and achieve them!”

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Upcoming M-1 Challenge Event:

Aug. 25 – M-1 Challenge 96: Mikutsa vs. Ibragimov in Saint Petersburg, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

M-1 Challenge middleweight champ Artem Frolov steps in to fight C.B. Dollaway, Sept. 15, at UFC Moscow

September 5, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

Artem Frolov (center) is the M-1 Challenge middleweight champion

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (September 4, 2018) — Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov will make his UFC debut, stepping in on short notice to replace injured Omari Ashkedov against battle-tested C.B. “The Doberman” Dollaway, September 15 on the UFC Moscow card at Olympic Stadium in Moscow.

“I am very happy for Artem,” M-1 Global president Vadim Finkelchtein said, “but a little bit nervous because he accepted the fight on such a short notice, only two weeks before the fitht. I’m sure he will demonstrate his high level once again. I said it before that Artem is the second strongest middleweight in Russia, after Alexander Shlemenko, and he deserves this shot. Some may know that Artem was going to fight Bruno Blindado Silva, who defeated Shlemenko, and I’m happy to say that this fight will happen this fall.”

The 26-year-old Frolov (11-0-0, M-1: 8-0-0), fighting at home out of Russia, captured his M-1 Challenge title belt last October, when he won a unanimous decision against Caio Magalhaes at M-1 Challenge 84. This past June at M-1 Challenge 93, Frolov made his first title defense versus Joe Riggs, who suffered a knee injury that led to a doctor’s stoppage in the second round.

A solid all-around fighter, Frolov has won 5 fights by stoppage, along with four submission victories and two by decision.

Frolov (L) is shown here landing a powerful strike smack on Caio Magalhaes’ chin

American MMA veteran Dollaway (17-8-0), representing Tempe, Arizona, has been a UFC fighter for the past decade.

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Aug. 25 – M-1 Challenge 96: Mikutsa vs. Ibragimov in Saint Petersburg, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

Bruno Silva shocks Alexander Shlemenko in 1st round

June 3, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

Undefeated Artiom Frolov defeats

Joe Riggs to remain M-1 Challenge middleweight champ

M-1 CHALLENGE 93 RESULTS & PICTURES

CHELYABINSK, Russia (June 1, 2018) – Brazilian middleweight Bruno Silva shocked Alexander Shlemenko with an opening round stoppage to set-up a potential showdown with M-1 Challenge champion Artiom Frolov, who defeated American challenger Joe “Diesel” Riggs earlier this evening (Fri.) at M-1 Challenge 93 in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

To say the least, Silva (18-6-0) was impressive in his M-1 Global debut, knocking out the former Bellator champion Shlemenko (56-11-1), at the 2:54 of the first round. Russian star Shlemenko, who was the M-1 Grand Prix middleweight champion, had been 6-0-0 in M-1 Global competition going into The Rage to take on Silva in the main event.

Silva pounded Shlemenko and finished him off here

Silva trapped Shlemenko on the ropes and unloaded a powerful barrage of punches to the head and body, as well as one well-executed knee to the face, leaving the Russian star out cold on his feet and the stunned crowed silent.

In the co-featured event, Frolov improved his perfect MMA pro record to 11-0-0, 8-0-0 in M-1 fights, when the doctor stopped the fight in the second round due to a knee injury suffered by Riggs, the former UFC fighter.

Frolov (on top) retained his M-1 Challenge middleweight title

Ukrainian flyweight Alexander Pletenko (14-4-0), also fighting for the first time in an M-1 Global event, won a third-round unanimous decision over Chris Kelades (12-4-0), the native of Greece who lives in Canada.

Russian lightweight Alexey Makhno (18-6-0) took a three-round unanimous decision fromRogerio Karranza (13-4-0), of Brazil, while Finnish flyweight Mikael Silander (18-6-0) choked Nureles Aidarov (3-1-0), of Kyrgyzstan, into a first-round submission.

On the preliminary card, Russian heavyweights Yuriy Fedorov (1-0-0) in his pro debut andNikolay Savilov (12-3-0) both used ground-and-pound attacks to defeat, respectively, French heavyweight Charles-Henri Lucien (0-2-0) in round one and Nikolay Rachek (7-6-0), of Russia, in the third frame.

In a battle of Russian middleweights, Vladimir Migovich (1-2-0) won a three-round unanimous decision over Nikita Novikoov (5-3-0), South African middleweight Mark Hulme (6-2-0) submitted his Russian opponent, Vadim Shabadash (7-3-0), via a rear naked choke in the opening round.

Russian lightweight Magomed Magomedov (9-2-0) won a three-round split decision over his countryman, Nikita Podkovalnikov (2-1-0), Russian bantamweight Sergey Klyuev‘s (6-1-0) kimura forced previously undefeated Ilya Karetnikov (4-1-0), of Russia, into first-round submission, and Pierre Ludet (4-0-0), of France, locked a rear naked choke on Russian flyweight Egor Filidov (0-1-0) for a first-round victory by submission.

Complete Results and a picture gallery below:

MAIN CARD

MAIN EVENT – MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Bruno Silva (18-6-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Brazil

KO1 (punches – 2:54)

Alexander Shlemenko (56-11-1, M-1: 6-1-0), Russia

CO-FEATURE – M-1 CHALLENGE MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Artiom Frolov (11-0-0, M-1: 8-0-0), Russia

WKO2 (doctor stoppage /knee injury – 0:46)

Joe Riggs (47-18-1, M-1: 2-1-1), USA

FLYWEIGHTS

Alexander Pletenko (14-4-0, M-1: 1-0-0-), Ukraine

WDEC3

Chris Kelades (12-4-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Canada

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Alexey Makhno (18-6-0, M-1: 5-3-0), Russia

WDEC3

Rogerio Karranca (13-4-0, M-1: 0-2-0), Brazil

FLYWEIGHTS

Mikael Silander (18-6-0, M-1: 2-1-0), Finland

WSUB1 (d’arce choke – 4:26)

Nureles Aidarov (3-1-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Kyrgyzstan

PRELIMINARY CARD

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Yuriy Fedorov (1-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia

WTKO1 (ground and pound stoppage – 1:31)

Charles-Henri Lucien (0-2-0, M-1: 0-1-0), France

Nikolay Savilov (12-3-0, M-1: 4-1-0), Russia

WTKO3 (ground and pound stoppage – 4:26)

Nikolay Rachek (7-6-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Russia

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Vladimir Migovich (1-2-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia

WDEC3

Nikita Novikov (5-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Russia

Mark Hulme (6-2-0, M-1: 1-0-0), South Africa

WSUB1 (rear naked choke – 2:20)

Vadim Shabadash (7-3-0, M-1: 2-1-0), Russia

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Magomed Magomedov (9-2-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia

WDEC3

Nikita Podkovalnikov (1-2-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Russia

BANTAMWEIGHTS

Sergey Klyuev (6-1-0, M-1: 4-1-0), Russia

WSUB1 (kimura – 2:25)

Ilya Karetnikov (4-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Russia

FLYWEIGHTS

Pierre Ludet (4-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), France

WSUB1 (rear naked choke – 3:36)

Egor Filidov (0-0-1, M-1: 0-0-1) , Russia

Silva celebrated after his shocking vicrory over Shlemenko

STILL THE CHAMP: Artiom Frolov has his hand raised in victory

(L) Alexander Pletenko won his M-1 Global debut

Alexey Makhno (on top) won a hard fought decision over Rogerio Karranca

Mikael Silander (R) submitted Nureles Aidarovn en route to a first-round victory

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UPCOMING EVENTS:

June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

June 15 – M-1 Challenge 94: Ismagulov vs. Damkovsky in Orenburg, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

M-1 Challenge 93 Weights & Pictures

June 1, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (May 31, 2018) – The official weight in was held today fortomorrow’s M-1 Challenge 93 at Chelyabinsk, Russia.

American fighter Joe “Diesel” Riggs experienced a long, costly trip from the U.S. to Chelyabinsk to challenge undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artiom Frolov in the co-featured event.

“On my way to Russia,” Riggs explained his journey, “we took an Uber to get to the airport. We had an accident. I wanted to take another Uber, but the cops would not let me leave, because they wanted to send me to the hospital to get checked. One of my cornermen had to go to the hospital because he was seated in the part of the car that has been damaged.

“I called the guys in M-1 Global and told them I was not going to make the flight to California. They were freaking out and said there is no way I could miss the flight and come the next day because it would mess everything up. I bought tickets for another flight to California, which would give me around 40 minutes to get in on time for the connection flight to Moscow. I had a choice of either taking my bags and staying overnight in California or leaving my bags and flying right away to Russia. I chose the second option, left my bags, and made it to Moscow. Now, I kind of regret that decision because it cost me around $20,000, which I will lose in sponsorship, but it’s all good, everything happens for a reason.

“Winning the belt would be a great end for my career. M-1 Global is a fantastic organization! This will be my fourth world title and it really means a lot for me. The guy I’m fighting, Artem Frolov, is not well-known, but he will probably be one of the best fighters I’ve ever fought! Anytime you fight for the title, you feel pressure. I was supposed to be the UFC champion when I was 22, but I would not show up for certain fights. I would not fight up to my potential and now I want to enter The Rage, show my best, and get that belt.”

Below find fighters’ weights and main-event pictures:

MAIN CARD

MAIN EVENT – MIDDELWEIGHTS — 3 X 5

(R) Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko

(56-10-1, M-1: 6-0-0), Russia 184.4 lbs. (83.65 kg)

vs.

(L) Bruno Silva (17-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Brazil 186.07 lbs. (84.4 kg)

CO-FEATURE – M-1 CHALLENGE MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 5 X 5

(R) Artiom Frolov (10-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0), Champion, Russia 185.18 lbs. (84 kg)

vs.

(L) Joe “Diesel” Riggs (47-17-1, M-1: 2-0-1), Challenger, USA 185.18 lbs. (84 kg)

FLYWEIGHTS — 3 X 5

(L) Chris “The Greek Assassin” Kelades (12-3-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Canada 124.56 lbs. (56.5 kg)

vs.

(R) Alexander Pletenko (13-4-0, M-1: 0-0-0-), Ukraine 125 lbs. (56.7 kg)

LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5

(L) Rogerio Karranca (13-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Brazil 154.32 lbs. (70 kg)

vs.

(R) Alexey “Ataman” Makhno (17-6-0, M-1: 4-3-0), Russia lbs. 161.82 lbs. (73.4 kg)

(yellow card) –

FLYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5

(L) Mikael “Hulk” Silander (17-6-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Finland 124.78 lbs. (56.6 kg)

vs.

(R) Nureles Aidarov (3-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Kyrgyzstan 124.56 lbs. (56.5 kg)

PRELIMINARY CARD

HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5

Charles-Henri Lucien (0-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), France228.62 lbs. (103.7 kg)

vs.

Yuriy Fedorov (pro debut), Russia 260.15 lbs. (118 kg)

Nikolay Rachek (7-5-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 249.12 lbs. (113 kg)

vs.

Nikolay Savilov (11-3-0, M-1: 3-1-0), Russia 231.82 lbs. (105.15 kg)

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 3 X 5

Nikita Novikov (5-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 184.42 lbs. (83.65 kg)

vs.

Vladimir Migovich (0-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 182.87 lbs. (82.95 kg)

Mark Hulme (5-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), South Africa 183.76 lbs. (83.35 kg)

vs.

Vadim Shabadash (7-2-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Russia 184.64 lbs. (83.75 kg)

LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5

Magomed Magomedov (8-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 154.98 lbs. (70.3 kg)

vs.

Nikita Podkovalnikov (1-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 154.54 lbs. (70.1 kg)

BANTAMWEIGHTS – 3 X 5

Sergey Klyuev (5-1-0, M-1: 3-1-0), Russia 135.14 lbs. (61.3 kg)

vs.

Ilya Karetnikov (4-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 128.97 lbs. (58.5 kg)

FLYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5

Egor Filidov (Pro Debut), Russia 122.8 lbs. (55.7 kg)

vs.

Pierre Ludet (3-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), France, 125 lbs. (56.7 kg)

(all fights & fighters subject to change)

WHEN: Friday, June 1, 2018

WHERE: Chelyabinsk, Russia

PROMOTER: M-1 Global

LIVE STREAM: www.m1global.tv (9.00 a.m. ET / 6:00 a.m. PT in USA). Also available onFITE.TV (preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card)

INFORMATION:

Twitter & Instagram:

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@Vfinkelchtein

@M1Global

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UPCOMING EVENTS:

June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

June 15 – M-1 Challenge 94: Ismagulov vs. Damkovsky in Orenburg, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

IN THE RAGE INTERVIEW CHRIS “The Greek Assassin” KELADES

May 31, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

Chris Kaledes (R) is shooting for his second straight M-1 victory this Friday

CHELYABINSK, Russia (May 30, 2018) – Greece-born flyweight Chris “The Greek Kelades” Kelades (12-3-0, M-1: 1-0-0), fighting out of Dartmouth, Canada, takes on Ukrainian fighter Alexander Pletenko (13-4-0, M;1: 0-0-0) this Friday night on the M-1 Challenge 93 main card, in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

Kelades made his successful M-1 Global debut last November at M-1 Challenge 86, when he defeated Oleg Lichkovakha by way of a third-round submission (Kimura).

It’s been more than a half- year since your M-1 Global debut. Why did you take such a long break?

CK: “It’s hard to believe it’s been that long. I was supposed to fight back in March, but I had problems getting my travel visa secured, so I was rebooked to fight in April but, unfortunately, the event was canceled. So, I’ve been ready to fight, but circumstances have changed the dates. I’m excited for this fight and looking forward to fighting in Chelyabinsk. Two times my fights have been canceled and it was extremely frustrating, but it gave me more time to work on my game and learn new techniques.”

In your M-1 Global debut, you have been very cautious during the first two rounds, but in the third round you got a submission. Is it your real fighting style or did you just wanted to win the debut fight without taking risks?

CK: Every fight is different. Sometimes in a new environment it takes longer to feel the fight start and you have to read the opponent before you react too aggressively.”

What can you say about your next opponent, Alexander Pletenko? You have similar records. Does it mean you have similar fighting styles?

CK: “I’ve seen some of his fights and I don’t think we have similar styles. I’ve been fighting the best guys in the world and at a certain level it’s more difficult to finish fights.”

Before joining M-1 Global you had never fought anywhere except North America. What does it feel like to fight half a world away from your home?

CH: “I really enjoyed myself the last time in my debut with M-1 Global. The travel is a little bit of a hassle with the distance, but I really enjoy fighting internationally and here in Russia. I like fighting away because I enjoy having to prove myself to other fighters and the fans. It motivates me!”

Russian star Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko (56-10-1, 1 NC, M-1: 6-0-0) headlines M-1 Challenge 93 against Brazilian power-puncher Bruno Silva (17-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0).

Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov (10-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0) defends his title for the first time against American favorite Joe “Diesel” Riggs (47-17-1, M-1: 2-0-1) in the M-1 Challenge 93 co-featured event.

M-1 Challenge 93 will be live-streamed from Russia in high definition on www.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register atwww.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets. M-1 Challenge 93 will also be available onwww.FITE.TV(preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card)

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June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia

M-1, M-1 Challenge, mixed martial arts, MMA, Russia

IN THE RAGE INTEVIEW Artem Frolov

May 30, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

CHELYABINSK, Russia (May 29, 2018) – Undefeated M-1 Challenge middleweight champion Artem Frolov (10-0-0, M-1: 7-0-0) defends his title for the first time this Friday against American favorite Joe “Diesel” Riggs (47-17-1, M-1: 2-0-1) in the M-1 Challenge 93 co-featured event, in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

Frolov has knocked out four of his opponents and submitted four others. Last October, Frolov captured the belt by defeating UFC veteran Caio Magalhaes, of Brazil, by unanimous decision and he needed a break to heal his injuries.

Artem Frolov (L) puts his perfect record and M-1 Challenge middleweight title belt on the line this Friday against Joe “Diesel” Riggs

In 2016 you had three fights and last year you fought only twice. How many fights a year would you like to have in the future?

AF: “I would like to fight three times a year. I think this is the best number because it lets me have enough time for good recovery after fights and enough time for training camps. Of course, there are also some distraction factors, which do not let me fight more often like, for example, some amateur competitions where I fight from time to time.”

Your title fight against Caio Magalhaes was a hard trial for you. How difficult was that 25- minute brawl?

AF: “I knew the fight was going to be a tough confrontation because Caio is a great fighter with excellent striking skills. However, during the fight I found the best way to fight him and saw how I could get the victory. He impressed me with his firmness; he did not quit after I delivered many hard punches, so I must admit he has a big heart.”

When did you learn that you were going to fight Joe Riggs? What can you say about his skills?

AF: “Even before the title fight I knew that, if I won the belt, my first title defense would be against Joe Riggs. He drew my attention with his debut fight in M-1 Global. I checked his record, took a look at the list of the guys he had defeated, and understood that sooner or later we were going to meet in The Rage.

“Of course, in the last few months, I watched many of the Diesel’s fights. His main advantage is his experience, he has five times more fights than me. Riggs is a well-rounded fighter, his wrestling skills together with the excellent control skills on the ground, and powerful ground-and- pound are probably his main strengths. So, he is definitely a fighter of the ‘American school’.”

After capturing the title, you were mentioned among the top 20 best prospects in the world by the famous MMA magazine Fighters Only. What does it feel?

AF: I was flattered to be mentioned in the best prospects list, especially by a respected magazine like Fighters Only. Such recognition proves that you dedicate your life to MMA for a reason and that you have really achieved something. But I know that I have much work to do and a lot of things in my game to improve.”

Two weeks after your fight against Riggs there will be a contender fight between Mikhail Ragozin and Valery Myasnikov. Who do you think will be the winner? Which one of them would you like to fight?

AF: “I am acquainted with both these guys, so I would not like to fight either of them. I can’t say who is going to win this fight because they are both strong athletes and have their advantages. In my opinion the one who will have better cardio will win the fight.

“I would prefer to fight only the strongest foreigners, not fellow countrymen. You travel around the country, have camps in different places, make friends and one day you are told that you are fighting one of them. That is not the best feeling, trust me, so I’d like to fight the best athletes from other countries, so I can fight not only for myself, my gym and my city, but for the country, defending the honor of the national flag.”

You have the same number of wins by knockouts and submissions in your record. How would you like to end the upcoming fight?

AF: “I came to MMA as a wrestler, so it makes me happy that I am getting better at striking. However, it feels great to win via submission as well, especially when it is a beautiful one. As a matter of fact, any finish is awesome, because my family and friends are worried about me during the fight and I don’t like to make them worry too long. So, I prefer to finish the fights early.

Russian star Alexander “Storm” Shlemenko (56-10-1, 1 NC, M-1: 6-0-0) headlines M-1 Challenge 93 against Brazilian power-puncher Bruno Silva (17-6-0, M-1: 0-0-0).

M-1 Challenge 93 will be live-streamed from Russia in high definition on www.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register at www.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets. M-1 Challenge 93 will also be available onwww.FITE.TV(preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card)

INFORMATION:

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@M1GlobalNews

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