A notable heavyweight team has assembled in Saint Petersburg, potentially the strongest roster since the legendary Red Devil team from 20 years ago. The current lineup includes Kirill Kornilov (18-3), Alexander Maslov (12-1), Anton Vinnikov (18-5), Daniil Matsola (7-0), Artem Dushenko (6-3 at 93kg), Dmitry Baboryko (2-0, young Greco-Roman wrestling master), Denis Goltsov (36-9), and regular training camp participant Anton Vyazigin (17-6). Most compete in ACA, meaning losses are inevitable due to the high level of competition, but those who succeed will prove themselves as world-class fighters. Upcoming matchups include Kirill Kornilov vs. Tony Johnson and Daniil Matsola vs. Khadis Ibragimov at ACA 202.
A heavyweight training collective based in Saint Petersburg has drawn significant attention in MMA circles, with observers suggesting the current roster may be the most formidable group the city has produced since the legendary Red Devil team dominated the scene roughly two decades ago.
The lineup assembled under this banner is substantial. Kirill Kornilov carries an 18-3 record, Alexander Maslov stands at 12-1, and unbeaten prospect Daniil Matsola is a perfect 7-0. Veteran Denis Goltsov adds considerable experience at 36-9, while Anton Vinnikov (18-5) and Anton Vyazigin (17-6), a regular training camp participant, round out the senior contingent. Artem Dushenko competes at 93 kilograms with a 6-3 mark, and Dmitry Baboryko, described as a young Greco-Roman wrestling specialist, is an unblemished 2-0. The majority of these fighters compete in ACA, a promotion known for consistently high-level matchmaking, meaning their records are tested against credible opposition.
Two matchups from this camp are set for ACA 202. Kornilov will face Tony Johnson, who holds an 11-3 record and lands two significant strikes per minute at 53 percent accuracy, while also averaging two takedowns per fifteen minutes. Matsola's unbeaten run will be challenged by Khadis Ibragimov, a 31-year-old Russian fighting out of Sambo Piter. Standing six-foot-three with a 78-inch reach, Ibragimov carries an 8-4 record and produces an active 3.55 significant strikes per minute.
Why it matters
- Matsola's perfect record faces its stiffest test yet against the experienced and rangy Ibragimov
- Kornilov's performance against Johnson will serve as a measuring stick for the team's top-end heavyweight talent
- The collective's depth across multiple weight classes and generations signals Saint Petersburg's continued relevance as a combat sports hub
- Success at ACA 202 could elevate several fighters toward broader international recognition
