Anatoly Malaykhin has returned to the top 15 of Russia's pound-for-pound fighter rankings following his knockout victory over Umar Khan in their rematch. The rankings, compiled monthly by 32 Russian MMA journalists, bloggers, and experts, place Islam Makhachev first with 512 points, followed by Petr Yan and Khamzat Chimaev. Malaykhin, ranked 14th, will not be eligible for future editions of the list after announcing his retirement from MMA following the win.
Anatoly Malaykhin has re-entered Russia's monthly pound-for-pound fighter rankings at 14th place after finishing Umar Khan by knockout in their rematch, but the appearance will be his last — the fighter has announced his retirement from MMA following the victory.
The rankings are compiled each month by a panel of 32 Russian MMA journalists, bloggers, and experts. Islam Makhachev leads the list with 512 points, followed by Petr Yan and Khamzat Chimaev. Malaykhin's knockout win was enough to push him back into the top 15, though the retirement announcement means he will not be considered for future editions.
Makhachev, the 34-year-old welterweight champion from Dagestan competing out of Eagles MMA, sits atop the list as Russia's premier active fighter. He carries a 28-1 record and lands strikes at a 58 percent accuracy rate, also averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes — a combination that has made him a dominant force in global pound-for-pound discussions.
Why it matters
- Malaykhin's ranking entry is a farewell acknowledgment from the Russian MMA media community, recognizing the knockout win as a strong final statement.
- With Malaykhin retiring, a spot in future editions opens for other Russian fighters pushing toward the top 15.
- Makhachev's position at the summit, backed by a 512-point lead, appears secure heading into the second half of 2026.
- The panel-based format, drawing on 32 voices across journalism and content creation, gives the list broader credibility than a single-outlet ranking.
