Artem Vakhitov, a highly regarded figure in kickboxing, is making his anticipated return to the GLORY promotion. The Russian fighter`s comeback bout will see him step into the heavyweight division for the first time to take on the long-reigning champion, Rico Verhoeven. This major clash is scheduled to headline GLORY 100 on June 14th.
News of Vakhitov`s return comes after he reportedly declined a UFC contract. He had earned the offer last October following a TKO win over Islem Masraf on Dana White`s Contender Series. Vakhitov stated his decision was motivated by a desire to return to the sport he calls his “love.”
His ability to compete in GLORY again follows the promotion`s decision to lift its ban on Russian fighters. The ban had been implemented in June 2022 due to logistical challenges following the conflict in Ukraine, affecting top competitors like Vakhitov.
While many speculated Vakhitov might return to reclaim his former light heavyweight title, his choice to immediately challenge Verhoeven for the heavyweight championship is a significant and surprising move, presenting the ultimate test in his return fight.
Jack Thornley 
Oliver Croft