"Some people will underestimate your achievements" - Three-division kingpin Anatoly Malykhin says he takes criticism in stride
ONE Triple-world champion Anatoly Malykhin has long learned how to keep his mind distracted from all the noise he gets from his worst critics.
The Russian knockout artist is the promotion's biggest superstar and main attraction at ONE Championship. He recently etched his name in the history books as an unprecedented three-division world champion in the heavyweight, light heavyweight, and middleweight weight divisions - all within a span of three years.
Nevertheless, no matter how accomplished or impressive his run has been, Malykhin has as many hardcore supporters as he does haters.
Talking to Red Corner MMA about all the hate he receives online, Malykhin said:
"I don't know why, but some people will underestimate your achievements instead of saying, 'You're the man.'
He continued to add:
"I don't take it personally, but the guys who worked with me took it to heart. I'm used to it, and know you just have to do your thing."
Anatoly Malykhin's reputation as one of the greatest pound-for-pound MMA fighters in the world is garerning a lot of traction worldwide.
Not many in his shoes are as techincal or as well-rounded as Malykhin, nor can they score highlight-reel finishes fight after fight against the best strikers in the sport.
His incredible repertoire of work and his popularity will only grow from here on out.
"No real threat" - Anatoly Malykhin downplays 'Reug Reug's' fight IQ and technical capabilities ahead of their heavyweight clash in Atlanta
If you were to ask Anatoly Malykhin if he's nervous to fight 'Reug Reug' Oumar Kane at ONE 168: Atlanta, he would probably answer with a laugh.
The Russian juggernaut isn't the least bit worried of Reug Reug's physical and imposing strength ahead of their heavyweight clash on November 8.
If anyone knows Malykhin, he isn't fazed by sheer strength or power but the work they put inside the ring to become a well-rounded fighter. And, according to Malykhin, Oumar Kane isn't the best example of what a champion should look like.
Speaking to ONE, Malykhin confidently said the following about Reug Reug's supposed threat against him.
"'Reug Reug' usually falls apart after the first anyway - hands drop, starts grabbing at opponent's shorts or gloves. Kind of a dirty fighter, really. No real threat, though."
ONE 169: Atlanta will be available to stream live and for free in Canada and the US with an active Prime Video subscription.