UFC

Artem Vakhitov Shockingly Turns Down UFC Contract To Return To Glory Kickboxing

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By
Garrett Kerman
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Garrett Kerman Sports Editor

Garrett Kerman also goes by the name of The Fight Analyst. He covers all combat sports, from MMA, to boxing, to even bare-knuckle. He is also very well-versed in all American sports when it comes to news and betting analysis. Whether you want betting advice or some breaking news, Garrett is your guy.

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Published26 Mar 2025

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Artem Vakhitov

In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the combat sports world, Artem Vakhitov, the last man to defeat Alex Pereira in kickboxing, has declined a UFC contract and opted to return to GLORY Kickboxing. This unexpected decision has not only derailed hopes for a potential MMA trilogy with Pereira but also sets the stage for a blockbuster heavyweight clash against Rico Verhoeven.

The UFC Dream Deferred

Vakhitov’s journey to the UFC seemed all but certain after his impressive first-round TKO victory over Islem Maraf on Dana White’s Contender Series last October. The win earned him a UFC contract and sparked excitement among fans eager to see how the two-time GLORY light heavyweight champion would fare in the octagon.

However, the transition hit a snag during contract negotiations. Vakhitov revealed that the UFC’s standard contract for DWCS winners didn’t meet his expectations, particularly given his accomplished kickboxing career. “I don’t want to come off as arrogant about this UFC contract,” Vakhitov explained. “I recognize they have their regulations, and I respect that, but as a prizefighter, I have responsibilities to my daughters and a limited window of opportunity”.

The Russian striker’s management team attempted to negotiate terms similar to those offered to Alex Pereira when he entered the UFC. However, the promotion remained firm on their standard contract policy for DWCS graduates.

A GLORY-ous Return: Vakhitov vs. Verhoeven

With the UFC door closed for now, Vakhitov has set his sights on a new challenge that promises to be equally thrilling. The former light heavyweight champion will move up in weight to face GLORY heavyweight kingpin Rico Verhoeven at GLORY 100 on June 14.

This matchup is a dream come true for kickboxing fans, as Vakhitov has been calling for a fight with Verhoeven since 2017. “It’s a significant fight that we’ve been aiming for since 2017,” Vakhitov stated. “I believe Rico’s reputation as an opponent is well established, and we’ve long desired this matchup. For me, this presents a fantastic opportunity to become a double champion, a goal I’ve had in mind for quite some time”.

The timing couldn’t be better for both fighters and the promotion. GLORY 100 is shaping up to be a monumental event, and a clash between two of the organization’s most decorated champions is a fitting headliner.

The Road Ahead: MMA Dreams on Hold

While Vakhitov’s immediate future lies in kickboxing, he hasn’t completely closed the door on an MMA career. “I’m not overly disappointed regarding the UFC, but we’re not completely closing the door on it. Why not consider it in the future?” he mused.

The Russian fighter’s brief foray into MMA yielded valuable experience in wrestling and grappling, which he believes will serve him well regardless of which sport he competes in. For now, his focus is squarely on the challenge posed by Verhoeven and the opportunity to cement his legacy in kickboxing.

As for the much-anticipated trilogy with Alex Pereira, fans will have to wait. Vakhitov’s manager, Andrey Busygin, acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic about future possibilities. “We are disappointed that we won’t see the trilogy between Artem and Alex in the octagon, but we have shifted our focus to other objectives now”.

In the ever-evolving landscape of combat sports, Artem Vakhitov’s decision serves as a reminder that fighters must navigate complex career choices. While the allure of the UFC is strong, established champions from other disciplines are increasingly weighing their options and leveraging their accomplishments to secure the best opportunities.

As Vakhitov prepares to face Verhoeven in what promises to be an explosive heavyweight showdown, the combat sports world will be watching closely. Whether this move leads to greater success or serves as a stepping stone back to MMA remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Artem Vakhitov is determined to make his mark, inside the ring or the cage.