Mansur Malachiev says early success in martial arts helped him ‘feel the fullness of life’ as a kid
Fifth-ranked ONE Championship strawweight MMA contender Mansur Malachiev of Russia grew up in the rough neighborhoods of the Republic of Dagestan, a region known for producing world-class fighters.
But living in an environment of poverty and the perils of violent crime, Malachiev tried his best not to head down a path that would lead him to misfortune.
That's why when the 32-year-old Industrial Fighters representative discovered martial arts as a kid, he made sure to get the most out of it. Soon enough, it turned into a lifelong career.
He told ONE Championship in a recent interview:
"After my first training session when I was around 8, I realized I wanted to do sports. My parents fully supported me. Training really helps you feel the fullness of life."
Malachiev added:
"My first competitions were at school. I remember once I came in second place, and that motivated me to work harder and train even more."
Today, Malachiev is one of the most talented and highly regarded strawweight MMA fighters in the world's largest martial arts organization. His combination of supreme skill and killer instinct has proven formidable in ONE Championship.
Luckily, fans won't have to wait long to see Mansur Malachiev back in action as he heads to the ring very soon.
Mansur Malachiev takes on Bokang Masunyane at ONE Fight Night 25 on Prime Video
No.5-ranked ONE Championship strawweight MMA contender Mansur Malachiev is set to do battle with no.2-ranked 'Little Giant' Bokang Masunyane of South Africa.
The two lock horns at ONE Fight Night 25: Nicolas vs. Eersel II on Prime Video, which broadcasts live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live via global pay-per-view on watch.onefc.com. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding the event as it happens.