Anatoly Malykhin has confirmed he is planning a return to MMA competition in November, targeting two fights on the RAF promotion. The former ONE Championship champion says his body is recovering well, with joint pain subsiding and his shoulder no longer a major concern. Malykhin also revealed he holds an active six-fight contract with ONE Championship, which he signed ahead of his rematch with Umar Khan.
Anatoly Malykhin has announced plans to return to MMA competition in November, with the former ONE Championship champion targeting two bouts under the RAF promotion banner.
The Russian heavyweight and light heavyweight standout revealed that his body is responding well to recovery, noting that lingering joint pain has eased and that a shoulder issue is no longer a significant obstacle to training and competing. He set November as his target window for the comeback, with two fights on the RAF card in his sights.
Malykhin also shed light on his contractual situation, disclosing that he holds an active six-fight deal with ONE Championship — an agreement he signed in the lead-up to his rematch with Umar Khan. That contract means his relationship with the Singapore-based promotion remains ongoing, even as he pursues activity elsewhere in the interim.
Why it matters
- Malykhin returning in November would mark his re-entry into active competition after a period on the sidelines due to physical concerns.
- The six-fight ONE Championship contract signals he remains tied to the promotion for future high-profile matchups.
- Two fights in a single promotional appearance would represent an aggressive timetable and underscore his eagerness to build momentum heading into 2027.
No opponent names for either proposed RAF bout were included in his announcement, and the fights have not been formally scheduled as of this report.
