Artem Vakhitov is looking to finally settle his competition with Alex Pereira.
After an impressive showing on Dana White’s Contender Series, the Russian fighter was offered a contract with the world`s leading mixed martial arts promotion. However, Vakhitov opted not to join the UFC at that time.
Instead, the skilled competitor has chosen to participate in one of kickboxing`s most significant upcoming fights.
This Saturday, Vakhitov is scheduled for a major clash against Rico Verhoeven at Glory 100, a battle between two renowned figures in combat sports.
Artem Vakhitov Interested in Fighting Alex Pereira in MMA
Should he defeat Verhoeven, Artem Vakhitov plans to turn his attention towards Alex Pereira.
The two fighters have faced off twice before in kickboxing, with `Poatan` winning their first encounter and Vakhitov taking the victory in the rematch.
Feeling their rivalry remains unresolved, Vakhitov expressed a strong desire to fight the powerful striker again, open to either an MMA bout or another kickboxing contest.
In a recent interview, he stated: “It was a very great story with Alex. People really remember it very well, and now Alex has become a superstar of the UFC.
“I’m really ready to fight him again, even in MMA rules. In kickboxing, we have our own story. It was a great story; why not make a trilogy there?
“Some people think it was not my win because it was a close fight, so I think it would be a good trilogy.
“I’m pretty sure the win will be on my side in our third fight.”
Artem Vakhitov Also Open to Entering the Glory Last Heavyweight Standing Tournament
While a third fight with Pereira is a clear ambition, a clash with the Brazilian is not the only goal for Vakhitov. The talented striker is also keen on participating in the Glory Last Heavyweight Standing tournament.
He conveyed his enthusiasm: “With great pleasure, I would like to join. I’ve already watched the first round at the last Glory event.
“As I’ve said many times, the weight is not so important, I don’t put too much attention on that. As you could see in the last round, the weight is not important.”
