In 2018, Russian fighters were making waves in the UFC, the premier stage in mixed martial arts, with Khabib Nurmagomedov and the rising star Zabit Magomedsharipov leading the charge with their dominant wrestling styles. Amidst this wave of success, a Russian bantamweight, widely regarded as a “master of boxing,” made his UFC debut. Interestingly enough, Nurmagomedov once went on to point out how English was essential for Zabit to promote himself. As a fellow Russian fighter, this advice applied to Yan too.

Petr Yan entered the octagon with a fierce determination, quickly living up to the high expectations placed on him. His impressive boxing skills were on full display as he delivered a dominant performance, earning a decisive victory over Teruto Ishihara. He went on an impressive seven-fight win streak, which ultimately secured the bantamweight championship belt. Although Petr Yan is no longer the champion, his name remains an integral part of any conversation about the greatest bantamweights in UFC history. Fans remain intrigued by this Russian fighter and often wonder about his language skills—does Petr Yan speak English, or is he fluent only in Russian? Did ‘No Mercy’ take up the Khabib’s advice?

 What is Petr Yan’s primary language?

Unlike other Russian MMA fighters in the UFC, Petr Yan’s family background reflects diverse roots. Born to a Chinese paternal grandfather and a Russian paternal grandmother, Yan’s father was of mixed Chinese and Russian heritage. This gives Petr Yan a unique blend of Chinese and Russian ancestry. However, despite his multicultural background, Yan primarily speaks Russian.

There is no available information about whether Yan has any proficiency in the Chinese language. Nevertheless, as a UFC fighter who frequently travels to the United States for events and to Bangkok, Thailand, for training, Petr Yan has shown a growing interest in developing his English-speaking skills. Over time, he has worked to improve his English, and fans are eager to know just how fluent he has become. Let’s explore further to see how much progress Petr Yan has made in mastering the English language.

Petr Yan speaking English

Earlier this year, Petr Yan marked seven successful years in the UFC promotion. In his most recent outing, which took place in March on American soil, Yan, who previously relied on a translator, showcased his improved English skills during the UFC 299 pre-fight press conference. Known for his usually reserved demeanor, Yan surprised fans by engaging in some trash talk, his accent reminiscent of fellow Russian fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam Makhachev, and Khamzat Chimaev.

At the presser, Petr Yan spoke English publicly for the first time, saying: “Hey guys, on Saturday, I’ll show him who’s the best boxer. I’ve been boxing since I was seven years old. I have a lot of fights in boxing, and I’ll smash this guy.”

Yan’s efforts to learn English extend beyond himself, as it also influences his family. In a candid interview, Yan revealed a humorous moment with his son, sharing: “My son told me, ‘Brother, what the f–k!’” This amusing anecdote highlights the progress Yan has made with English, both in his professional and personal life.

All eyes are now on the upcoming UFC event in Macau this weekend, where Petr Yan, of Chinese and Russian descent, is poised to demonstrate his skills in China, the country of his grandfather’s heritage. Yan will face former two-time flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo in a grueling five-round battle. The pressure is on, as Yan looks to prove himself on the land that ties back to his roots.

Who will you be rooting for—Yan or Figueiredo? Drop your opinion below!