Ciryl Gane has invited kickboxer Artem Vakhitov to his training camp in preparation for his fight against Alex Pereira. Vakhitov holds the distinction of being the last person to defeat Pereira in kickboxing, with the victory coming in 2021. This strategic move suggests Gane is seeking specific insights into Pereira's striking style and tendencies. The addition of Vakhitov could provide Gane with valuable sparring and tactical analysis ahead of the high-profile matchup. The post includes a photo credited to MuayThaiForAll showing the training setup.
Ciryl Gane has brought Russian kickboxer Artem Vakhitov into his training camp as he prepares to face UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira, with the move carrying clear strategic intent given Vakhitov's unique history with the champion.
Gane, nicknamed "Bon Gamin," enters the matchup ranked second in the heavyweight division with a 14-2 record. The 36-year-old Frenchman, who trains out of MMA Factory, stands six-foot-four with an 81-inch reach and is one of the more technically refined strikers in the sport, averaging 5.29 significant strikes per minute at 61 percent accuracy. He also mixes in a modest grappling threat, averaging 0.68 takedowns and 0.6 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Pereira, 38, is the reigning light heavyweight champion carrying a 13-4 record. The Brazilian, who trains at Teixeira MMA and Fitness, also stands six-foot-four with a 79-inch reach and puts up 5.16 significant strikes per minute at 62 percent accuracy. His knockout power and pressure-heavy kickboxing style have defined his rise through the UFC ranks.
That is precisely where Vakhitov becomes relevant. The 35-year-old orthodox striker from Russia, representing the Kuzbass Muay Thai Federation, holds the distinction of being the last man to defeat Pereira in kickboxing, a victory that came in 2021. Vakhitov posted a striking accuracy of 85 percent in his MMA appearances, a figure that speaks to the technical precision he brings. His firsthand knowledge of how to navigate Pereira's offense makes him a credible and specific resource for Gane's preparation.
Why it matters
- Vakhitov is the last fighter on record to beat Pereira in a striking contest, giving Gane direct access to tactical blueprints against the champion
- Gane's reach advantage over Pereira, 81 inches to 79, could become a focal point of the gameplan Vakhitov helps develop
- The camp addition signals Gane is prioritizing striking sophistication over general preparation for one of the most dangerous knockout artists in the sport
