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Tag Archives: M-1
In “The Rage” with….. Khamzat Dalgiev
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Khamzat Dalgiev (R) connects against Ivan BuchingerSAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (July 18) – M-1 Challenge featherweight champion Khamzat Dalgiev (10-1-0, M-1: 7-1-0) defends his title this Saturday against his American challenger, Nate “The Train” Landwehr (10-2-0, M-1: 2-0-0), in the M-1 Challenge 95: Battle in the Mountains main event, this Saturday in Ingushetia, Russia.
An all-around gifted MMA fighter, Dalgiev got into “The Rage” for a one-on-one interview:
When did you first start in MMA?
KD: “I started training in judo when I was a child and I really loved it. After one championship, where judges made a few very bad decisions that prevented me from becoming the national champion, I decided to move on. At that time there were no MMA gyms around, so I just watched fight videos and hoped to start fighting one day. After a while a friend of mine told me about an MMA gym opening and I understood this was my chance. I remember staying far away from The Rage at one of the first M-1 Global shows in Ingushetia, dreaming about entering the Rage one day by myself.”
What did you have to work hardest at to become the fighter you are today?
KD: “In the beginning of my career, the most difficult thing for me was striking, because I only had a wrestling background. But I can say for sure that it is much easier for a wrestler to learn striking than for a striker to learn wrestling. After a few months of hard training, I had my first fight.
“In my early fights, I preferred using my wrestling skills to defeat my opponents, but as my striking was getting better, I started using it more and more and really enjoyed it. In the upcoming fight I’d love to add the fourth knockout victory to my record.”
Can you talk a little about your only pro loss that came in your debut?
KD: “In my debut fight, I fought a much more experienced fighter, Ali Bagov, who had more than 20 pro fights on his record. I did not care about his record because those are just numbers and I have never chosen my opponents. If you want to be the best you have to fight the best.
“That loss in my debut fight changed me a lot as a fighter. I gained experience, started training harder and since then, with God’s help, I’ve won 10 fights in a row. Even if I could change it and declined taking that fight, I would never do it because that fight was one of the most important one in my career.”
What’s the key to your success?
KD: “If you want to succeed, you have to work hard 24/7 and spare no efforts. You have to set a goal and do your best to reach it, clearing all obstacles on your way.
Can you look back at your title-winning performance and explain what happened?
“In the title fight against Ivan Buchinger, I had great confidence that the title belt will be mine. I was extremely motivated and did not feel his punches. He could deliver one good shot to my head that caused a flash knockdown, but it did not shake me. I did not lose concentration and kept controlling the fight. I was listening to my corner and with their help knocked out the champ.
“For that victory the president of Ingushetia Yunus-bek Yevkurov, gave me a generous gift – Toyota Camry – and when I got home that night, I gave it to my mother because I believe that a mother is the most important person in life for any person. I am not always at home, we have no father and my baby brother is too young to help our mom, so mother could use a car to make her life a bit easier.
What do you feel about your opponent, Nate Landwehr?
KD: “Nate Landwehr is a very aggressive fighter and I love it. He keeps pushing his opponents all the time, no matter what, and even if he eats some punches, he does not stop, and this is exactly the way I fight. Nothing can stop me! So, I have no doubts our fight is going to be the best fight of the night!
“The best victory is the fast victory, so I’d like to finish ‘The Train’ early. On the other hand, a tough five-round battle would give me much more experience and a boost to my career. Anyway, I’ll do my best and use any opportunity to finish my opponent. My goal to is to become a better fighter and leave a mark in MMA history!”
M-1 Challenge featherweight title-holder Movsar Evloev (9-0-0, M-1: 9-0-0) makes his second title defense versus Rafael Dias (15-5-0, M-1: 1-1-0) In the co-featured event.
INFORMATION:
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@M1GlobalNews
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@M1Global
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Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events:
July 21 – M-1 Challenge 95 in Ingushetia, Russia
In “The Rage” with….. Nate Landwehr
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Nate Landwehr (on top) pounded Mikhail Korobkov in his M-1 Global debut last SeptemberSAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (July 17) – American fighter Nate “The Train” Landwehr(10-2-0, M-1: 2-0-0) challenges M-1 Challenge featherweight champion Khamzat Dalgiev (10-1-0, M-1: 7-1-0) this Saturday in the M-1 Challenge 95: Battle in the Mountains main event, this Saturday in Ingushetia, Russia.
Fighting out of Clarksville, Tennessee, Landwehr got into “The Rage” for a one-on-one interview:
How did you get your nickname, ‘The Train”?
NL: “My friend started calling me Nate Train back in late middle school. I added ‘the’ in there so I could talk shit on the football field in high school, I just liked saying: ‘You just got ran over by the Train!’ When I started fighting is was a no-brainer. I was very good at football and that’s where I fell in love with contact and hard hits.”
Where does your aggressive behavior, physically and verbally, come from?
NL: “I’ve always been loud and confident. Plus, I loved to show off and talk shit, so I got myself in many, many fights. I was not a bull. I was too small for that, but I would get myself in a situation and have to fight my way out of it.”
When did your MMA career turn around?
NL: “I was working a full-time job until I lost for the second time in my career. After that loss, I quit my job, started training full time and haven’t lost since.”
Who do you give the most credit to in terms of where you’re at right now in MMA?
NL: “My wife, Robyn, is the most important. Without her I would be nothing. She has supported me since day one. Most fighters start off with only themselves believing they could make it, I started with two.”
How do you feel about fighting in Russia?
NL: I’ve been many places around the world traveling with my wife. So, I was very happy to be able to go to Russia and get paid for it. Russia is very beautiful and the architecture there is stunning. I’m looking forward to exploring and experiencing more of its land and culture in the future. I recommend going if you’ve never been there!”
As your title fight approaches, how do you feel about this title shot?
NL: “I’m looking forward to my title shot it and can’t wait. Reminds me of the movie ROCKY IV. Fans will get a show they will never forget. Many Russian fans do love me and message me personally on social networks saying, I put on the best fights they have seen and thank me for it. My main job is to make believers!”
How have you been treated by Russian fans?
NL: “After the last two fights, I have had the biggest lines of fans to take pictures and sign autographs. What makes me special is my passion and heart. You may not remember the whole fight, but you will remember the feeling you had when you see a Nate the Train show!”
What do you expect from the champion, Khamzat Dalgiev?
DL: “I expect a highly motivated man ready to do whatever it takes to keep that title, fighting in front of his fans and in his home country, but it won’t be enough to defeat me. This has Fight of the Year written all over it, followed by Knockout of the Night for me. I am willing to walk through hell to become a world champion and nothing can stop me right now. I’m a man on a mission that started with a boy and his dream.”
In the co-featured event, M-1 Challenge featherweight title-holder Movsar Evloev (9-0-0, M-1: 9-0-0) makes his second title defense versus Rafael Dias (15-5-0, M-1: 1-1-0).
INFORMATION:
Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
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@M1Global
Facebook:
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Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events:
July 21 – M-1 Challenge 95 in Ingushetia, Russia
“Road to M-1: USA” August 11 in Nashville
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 28, 2018) – “Road to M-1: USA”, presented by M-1 Global USA and Angel Fight Promotions, will be held August 11, airing on worldwide pay-per-view live from Global Mall in Nashville, Tennessee.
Two M-1 Challenge title fights at M-1 Challenge 95 Kamzat Dalgiev vs. Nate Landwehr Movsar Evloev vs. Raphael Dias
 July 21 in Ingushetia, Russia
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 Nate Landwehr (on top) pounded Mikhail Korobkov in his M-1 Global debut last SeptemberSAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (June 19, 2018) — M-1 Global has announced that M-1 Challenge 95: Battle in the Mountains will feature a pair of title fights on July 21 in Ingushetia, Russia.
M-1 Challenge 95 will be live-streamed from Ingushetia 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 95 will also be available on www.FITE.TV(preliminary card is free, $7.99 for the main card)
American fighter Nate “The Train” Landwehr (10-2-0, M-1: 2-0-0)), fighting out of Clarksville, Tennessee, challenges M-1 Challenge featherweight champion Khamzat Dalgiev (10-1-0, M-1: 7-1-0), while M-1 Challenge featherweight title-holder Movsar Evloev (9-0-0, M-1: 9-0-0) makes his second title defense versus Rafael Dias (15-5-0, M-1: 1-1-0).
Landwehr broke into M-1 Global last year and from the beginning he has become one of the most popular fighters of the promotion. “The Train” fights a not-a-step-back style and starts trading punches with the opponents from the first seconds of the fight. All his fights are spectacular and no matter how the fight goes, he is always ready to find a moment to knock out opponent.
Landwehr stopped Mikhail Korobkov via punches in the second round at M-1 Challenge 83 at September. He followed up that impressive M-1 Global performance with a win by decision last November over Viktor Kolesnik at M-1 Challenge 85.
Dalgiev (10-1-0, M-1: 7-1-0), of Ingushetia, is champion for several good reasons. He is riding a 10-fight win streak, including six consecutive finishes. Last November, he took full advantage of his first title shot, shocking the MMA world with a sensational knock out of defending M-1 Challenge featherweight champion Ivan Buchinger in the opening round at M-1 Challenge 86. Dalgiev has five submissions and three knockouts on his pro record, including five first-round finishes.
Evloev (9-0-0, M-1: 9-0-0), who will be fighting at home in Ingushetia, is one of the most dominant M-1 Global champions. A cardio machine who has been unstoppable, he is an extremely well-rounded fighter. Evloev is always ready for everything that may happen in The Rage, capable of finishing his opponent early, or torturing him for 25 minutes.
Dias (15-5-0, M-1 1-1-0) prefers to take his time to win by decision, but fans may also remember his stunning victory in his second fight in M-1 Global, locking in a great choke to submit Vadim Malygin at M-1 Challenge 90.
Additional fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
INFORMATION:
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Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events: July 21 – M-1 Challenge 95 in Ingushetia, Russia
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Bruno Silva shocks Alexander Shlemenko in 1st round
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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.
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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
INFORMATION:
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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 Challenge 93 Weights & Pictures
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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:
@M1GlobalNews
@Vfinkelchtein
@M1Global
Facebook:
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
IN THE RAGE INTERVIEW CHRIS “The Greek Assassin” KELADES
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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)
INFORMATION:
Twitter & Instagram:
@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/M-1-GlobalNews
Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events:
June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia
IN THE RAGE INTEVIEW Artem Frolov
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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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Upcoming M-1 Challenge Events:
June 1 – M-1 Challenge 93: Shelemnko vs. Silva in Chelyabinsk, Russia
M-1 CHALLENGE 92 RESULTS & PICTURES
 Sergei Kharitonov vs. Anton Vyazigin declared
“No Contest”
Aleksander Doskalchuk crowned undisputed
M-1 Challenge flyweight champion |
Aleksander Doskalchuk is now the undisputed M-1 Challenge flyweight champion
|
SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia (May 25, 2018) – Last night’s SuperFight between Russian heavyweight star Sergei Kharitonov and his main event challenger, Anton Vyazigin, was declared a “no contest” and Aleksander Doskalchuk established himself as the undisputed M-1 Challenge flyweight champion last night at M-1 Challenge 92 at M-1 Arena in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Kharitonov (27-6-0) originally was declared the winner by way of a second-round technical decision over his Russian opponent, Vyazigin (9-2-0), due to an illegal eye poke that prevented Kharitonov from continuing to fight.
The result was later changed to a “no contest” after the commission, assembled by M-1 Global president Vadim Finkelchtein, reviewed the fight video and made the decision to change the result. A rematch will be scheduled for one of the next events, likely M-1 Challenge 95: Battle in the Mountains, which will happen in July in Ingushetia, Russia.
“A ‘no contest’ was the only possible decision in this situation,” Finkelchtein explained the change. “It was an accident and yesterday the judges made the decision according to the rules, giving the victory to Kharitonov, based on the scorecards. But this fight was an exception.”
“Changing the result to ‘no contest’ is the best choice,” Kharitonov agreed. “This was not the victory I wanted. I was sure the fight would be ruled as no contest, so I was surprised when the referee raised my hand. Anton did not want to poke me, so I think the decision now is fair. In the hospital I was told I’ve got an eye contusion and corneal abrasion. I hope to recover fast and get a rematch.”
Sergei Kharitonov (R) didn’t agree with the original decision declaring him the winner.
“I think ‘no contest’ is a fair result,” Vyazigin added. “I was sure that after that poke, Sergei would take a break, and then we will go on. But the fight was stopped and he was declared the winner. Talking about corneal abrasion, I have no idea how it could happen. I always cut my nails before fights and the referee checks that, so that is weird. Of course, I want a rematch, our story has not ended.”
Doskalchuk (9-1-0), fighting out of Ukraine, entered The Rage as the M-1 Challenge flyweight champion to take on M-1 Challenge Interim flyweight titlist Arman Ashimov (8-3-1), of Kazakhstan. Ashimov was unable to continue after two rounds due to a hand injury.
Brazilian welterweight Tiago “Bahia” Varejao (27-5-1) turned in an impressive M-1 debut, taking a majority decision from former M-1 Challenge title challenger Sergey Romanov (14-3-0).
Giga Kukhalashvili (9-4-0) was disqualified in the third round for “rope grabbing” against undefeated Russian light heavyweight Khadis Ibragrimov (4-0-0).
Russian lightweight Pavel Gordeev (11-1-0) took a split decision victory from Mickael “Ragnar” Lebout (17-9-2), of France.
On the preliminary card, Russian heavyweight Maksim Baruzdin (1-0-0) won his pro debut, stopping Cuban giant Freddi Gonzales (0-2-0) in the opening round via punches, Russian lightweight prospect Alexey “Phenomenal” Ilyenko (8-0-0) lived up to his nickname, remaining undefeated by unleashing a barrage of kicks and punches for a third-round knockout of Helson Henriques (9-6-1), of Angola.
Kyrgyzstan featherweight Azibek Satibaldiev (7-4-0) was disqualified in the second round for kicking a grounded fighter, German challenger Saba Bolaghi (9-1-1), Russian featherweight Mikhail Kuznetson (6-4-1) used a guillotine choke to submit fellow countryman Nikita Solonin (4-2-0) in round two, and Ukrainian bantamweight Ludwig Sholinyan (2-0-1) andAlexander Osetrov (4-0-1) fought to a three-round majority draw.
Georgian welterweight Amiran Gogoladze (6-1-0) won a three-round split decision over Russian Taymuraz Guriev, while Ruslan Shamilov (5-0-0) kept his undefeated intact with a three-round split decision versus Denis Tiuliulin (3-4-0) in a battle between Russian middleweights.
Fighters represented 10 different countries: Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Brazil, Georgia, France, Angola, Germany, Cuba and Kyrgyzstan.
Complete results & photo gallery below:
MAIN CARD
MAIN EVENT – HEAVYWEIGHTS
Sergei Kharitonov (27-6-0, M-1: 5-0-0), Russia
“No Contest”
Anton Vyazigin (9-2-0, M-1: 4-1-0), Russia
CO-FEATURE – M-1 CHALLENGE FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Aleksander Doskalchuk (9-1-0, M-1: 3-0-0), Champion, Ukraine
WTKO2 (5:00)
Arman Ashimov (8-3-1, M-1: 3-1-0), Interim Champion, Kazakhstan
(Doskalchuk becomes undisputed M-1 Challenge flyweight title)
WELTERWEIGHTS
Tiago “Bahia” Varejao (27-5-1, M-1: 1-0-0-), Brazil
WDEC3
Sergey Romanov (14-3-0, M-1: 5-2-0), Russia
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Khadis Ibragimov (4-0-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Russia
WDQ3 (rope grabbing – 3:27)
Giga Kukhalashvili (9-4-0, M-1: 2-1-0), Russia by way of Georgia
LIGHTWEIGHTS
Pavel Gordeev (11-1-0, M-1: 5-0-0), Russia
WDEC3
Mickael “Ragnar” Lebout (17-9-2, 1 NC, M-1: 1-1-0), France
PRELIMINARY CARD
HEAVYWEIGHTS
Maksim Baruzdin (1-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia
WTKO1 (punches – 0:18)
Freddi Gonzales (0-2-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Cuba
MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Ruslan Shamilov (5-0-0, M-1: 5-0-0), Russia
WDEC3
Denis Tiuliulin (3-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0)
WELTERWEIGHTS
Danila Prikaza (10-2-1, M-1: 7-2-0), Russia
WDEC3
Joilton “Peregrino” Santos (24-7-0, 1 NC, M-1: 0-1-0), Brazil
Amiran Gogoladze (6-1-0, M-1: 3-0-0), Georgia
WDEC3
Taymuraz Guriev (7-4-0, M-1: 2-2-0), Russia
LIGHTWEIGHTS
Alexey “Phenomenal” Ilyenko (8-0-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia
WKO3 (kicks & punches – 0:27)
Helson Henriques (9-6-1, M-1: 0-1-0), Angola
FEATHERWEIGHTS
Mikhail Kuznetsov (6-4-1, M-1: 4-3-1), Russia
WSUB2 (guillotine choke – 4:20)
Nikita Solonin (4-2-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Russia
BANTAMWEIGHTS
Ludwig Sholinyan (2-0-1, M-1: 0-0-1), Ukraine
D3
Alexander Osetrov (4-0-1), M-1: 3-0-1), Russia