Poatan's last kickboxing tormentor, Vakhitov has a fight scheduled on the 'Contender Series' in October

Alex Poatán and Artem Vakhitov in a kickboxing duel (Photo: Disclosure/GLORY)

Responsible for the last defeat of Alex Poatán In professional kickboxing, Artem Vakhitov is getting closer and closer to perhaps crossing paths with the Brazilian again. According to information initially released by the 'MMA Propagande' page, the Russian has a confirmed fight against Islem Maraf in the next edition of 'Dana White's Contender Series', on October 8th, earning a possible contract with the UFC.

Former GLORY light heavyweight champion, Artem Vakhitov was cut from the organization, like all Russian athletes, after the start of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine in early 2022. The fighter made the transition to MMA and has a professional record of two wins and one defeat.

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Artem Vakhitov and Alex Poatán they faced each other on two occasions at GLORY. In the first, the Brazilian won in a split decision from the judges, becoming the first champion of two categories in the organization. The rematch, which took place months later, ended with the Russian winning the majority decision of the judges to regain the light heavyweight belt.

Recently, the flame of rivalry between Vakhitov and Poatan was rekindled after a exchange of provocations initiated by the Russian in an interview and maintained by the Brazilian in response on social media.