In the MMA world, it’s rare to see fighters from rival organizations praising each other. However, we recently witnessed an exception. Islam Makhachev, the UFC Lightweight Champion, lauded ONE CHmpionshp’s current Heavyweight World Champion, Anatoly Malykhin. The respect is mutual, as Malykhin has also spoken highly of Makhachev.

Malykhin boasts an undefeated streak since his 2021 ONE Championship debut. In a recent interview with a well-known media outlet, Anatoly Malykhin expressed his support for Arman Tsarukyan’s victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300, even though Tsarukyan’s split-decision win was met with criticism. Malykhin empathizes with Tsarukyan’s situation, having faced similar critiques following Makhachev’s praise for him.

Anatoly Malykhin defends Arman Tsarukyan’s controversial win over Oliveira

Three-division ONE Championship World Champion Anatoly Malykhin is riding high after his recent win against Reinier de Ridder at ONE Prime Video 5: De Ridder vs. Malykhin 2. This wasn’t just any other victory; it was a rematch, as Anatoly Malykhin had previously defeated de Ridder in their first encounter. In a recent interview with Red Corner MMA, they caught up with Malykhin in his hometown. The conversation delved into his journey, exploring his tradition from wrestling to MMA.

Malykhin’s interview went beyond these topics. He also spoke about the reactions he received after being praised by Islam Mkahachev, and how some critics invalidated his achievements. He later added, ” Yes, people do it, everyone. They invalidate not just my effort, but Arman Tsarukyan’s as we”. He beats Charles Oliveira, and people say Oliveira is old, even though Oliveria is a top-three and gives everyone a tough fight. it’s not just me; it happens to everyone. I don’t know why but some people underestimate your achievements.”

Later, Anatoly Malykhin revealed his disappointment that people weren’t congratulating him or using his victory as an example, even though he defeated Reinier de Ridder, a fighter with an impressive 16-0 record and the only non-UFC fighter ranked in the top 10. Despite the lack of recognition, “Sladkiy” remains pleased. While many don’t praise or admire his skills, he finds satisfaction in Islam Makhachev recognizing him as one of the most dangerous fighters on the planet.

Makhachev calls Malykhin the most dangerous fighter

On March 1 at ONE 166: Qatar, Anatoly Malykhin etched his name in history. He captured the Middleweight MMA World Championship by defeating Reinier de Ridder, becoming a three-division ONE MMA World Champion. This victory distinguished him from the rest of the ONE’s fighters, catching the eye of the entire MMA world, including UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev.

Notably impressed by Malykhin’s valor, Islam Makhachev took to Instagram to acknowledge his fellow countryman’s achievement. Mkahachev posted a photo of “Sladkiy” and tagged him with the caption”most dangerous guy on the planet.” Both fighters hail from Russia. Makhachev, currently a top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, undoubtedly fueled his countryman’s confidence with his words.

However, this praise exchange showcases sportsmanship isn’t a one-way street. last week, before UFC 300, Anatoly Malykhin offered his prediction on Islam Makhachev’s fight against Dustin Poirier, stating his belief in Makhachev’s victory. Of course, Makhachev did defeat Poirier at UFC 300, proving Malykhin’s prediction accurate. Fans enjoy seeing champions supporting each other across promotions.

Would you like to see Anatoly Malykhin and Islam Makhachev train together someday? Let us know in the comments!