Muslim Salikhov triumphed over Song Kenan at UFC Macau in a thrilling welterweight clash. Known as the ‘King of Kung Fu’, Salikhov utilized his trademark precision striking, and experience to secure a decisive victory via knockout in the first round. His calculated approach outclassed Kenan’s aggressive style, with the veteran once again landing a brutal spinning head kick.

This win rejuvenates Salikhov’s career, reaffirming his status as a formidable competitor in the division. His performance impressed one and all including the lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. The Dagestani fighter took to his X account to remind the world how dangerous the 40-year-old is.

Islam Makhachev congratulates Muslim Salikhov after his victory at UFC Macau

Muslim Salikhov and Islam Makhachev, both renowned Dagestani fighters, share a connection through their origins in the combat-sport-rich region of Dagestan. The champion respects the fighter and showed his appreciation towards him after his victory. He took to his X account and shared a caption that read, “King of KungFu, @MuslimSalikhov” He also took to his Instagram account and wrote, ‘Always Dangerous’ 

Salikhov’s career highlights include several breathtaking performances, such as his spinning wheel kick knockout of Nordine Taleb at UFC 242 in 2019. This victory, achieved in Abu Dhabi, earned him a “Performance of the Night” bonus, further cementing his reputation as a striking artist. Over the years, Salikhov has consistently proven his mettle against seasoned opponents, often dazzling fans with his dynamic style.

Though his journey hasn’t been without setbacks, including grappling losses to skilled opponents, Salikhov has remained a fan favorite for his spectacular finishes and technical prowess. His persistence, combined with his ability to adapt and overcome challenges, has solidified his position as a respected contender in the welterweight division.

At 40 years old, the fighter has impressed one and all with his performances. But more than his performance his nickname has also made him a fan favorite. But why is he called the ‘Kung Fu King’? Let us find out about it below.

Muslim Salikhov and the story behind his unique nickname inside the Octagon

Nicknames are a fascinating aspect of the UFC, giving fighters an additional identity that reflects their fighting style, heritage, or personality. These monikers often resonate with fans and can become as famous as the fighters themselves. Talking about Salikhov, he has trained himself in Wushu-Sanda. This kind of martial arts form has its roots dug deep in one of the most interesting forms, Chinese Kung Fu. Needless to say, the art hasn’t really become popular outside of China.

However, it was Gusein Magomaev, founder of the ‘Five Directions of the World’ school, who began to teach Kung Fu in Russia. This helped Salikhov practice the art of Wushu-Sanda in ‘Russia’s Shaolin Temple’. However, his nickname ‘King Of Kung Fu’ was given after he defeated four Chinese opponents in a competition called Kung Fu King.

The Dagestani fighter shared the details of it and said, “Before I won the title of King of Kung Fu, a Russian karate team came for a Russia vs. China match. Russia lost, and a heavyweight called Sergei Osipov lost by knockout. Journalists in China found out he was in the security services, I think working in a government close protection team. When I beat four Chinese fighters on the same night, they asked me if Putin sent me to take revenge for Sergei.” The 40-year-old is still performing inside the Octagon and fans will like to see him more in action.

Who do you think Muslim Salikhov will be facing next in his career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.