While Anatoly Malykhin made history as the only three-division ONE MMA World Champion, he now only holds both the light heavyweight and middleweight titles simultaneously.
The Russian will attempt to get his heavyweight belt back when he rematches the man he lost it to – “Reug Reug” Oumar Kane – at ONE 173 in Tokyo, Japan, on 16 November.
But his love for combat sports extends beyond mixed martial arts and into the world of professional wrestling.
The 37-year-old Russian powerhouse's fascination with wrestling began during his childhood, creating cherished family memories that remain vivid decades later.
"I watched it as a kid, back when it was Goldberg and CM Punk. I used to root for Goldberg and Sting. I remember how we'd all sit around the TV [and watch wrestling] as a family," Malykhin recalled fondly.
Those formative years watching wrestling legends shaped his appreciation for the sport's entertainment value and larger-than-life personalities.
Among modern wrestling icons, one figure particularly commands Malykhin's respect and his name is Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
"That guy's [The Rock] a legend. He is a self-made man, from a pro wrestler to a top-tier actor. He's living proof that with hard work, you can achieve anything," the champion said.
Given his impressive 6-1 ONE Championship record and natural charisma, Malykhin's potential in professional wrestling isn't far-fetched.
When asked about possibly stepping into that world, the Russian remained confident.
"I haven't thought about it, but I think I'd do alright. I've got a solid grappling base, I move well for a heavyweight, and I think I've got a bit of acting in me too. It'd be an interesting experience," he mused.
His wrestling persona would draw inspiration from his childhood hero, with dream matchups already forming in his mind.
"I'd probably be something like Goldberg. I always liked him as a kid. And I'd face…I don't know, maybe 'The Rock,'" Malykhin said with enthusiasm.
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