Reug Reug faces a double challenge in 23 days

Thiaroye, Senegal – In a rare and challenging period, Senegalese MMA star Baysangur "Reug Reug" Chamsoudinov is set to navigate a demanding schedule, facing two high-stakes contests within a mere 23-day span. This unprecedented challenge pits him against formidable opponents in two distinct combat sports, testing his mettle and versatility to the absolute limit.

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Le vendredi 15 mai prochain, le champion du monde des poids lourds du One championship remettra sa ceinture en jeu face au redoutable Russe Anatoly « Sladkiy » Malykhin, avant d’enchaîner, le dimanche 7 juin 2026, avec un combat de lutte très attendu contre Boy Niang 2.

The first major hurdle arrives on May 15, when Reug Reug, the reigning ONE Championship heavyweight world champion, will defend his coveted belt against the formidable Russian contender, Anatoly "Sladkiy" Malykhin. This bout, taking place in Bangkok's iconic Lumpinee Stadium, is a highly anticipated rematch. In their previous encounter at ONE 169 in November 2024, Reug Reug achieved a historic upset, handing Malykhin his first-ever professional defeat via a split decision after an intense 25-minute battle. Malykhin, a champion in three different weight classes, is now driven by a fierce desire to reclaim his title and avenge the loss.

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Deux disciplines, deux contextes, un seul combattant et seulement 23 jours pour gérer deux grands rendez-vous sportifs.

Barely 23 days after this high-octane MMA showdown, Reug Reug must pivot to his roots in traditional Senegalese wrestling. On June 7, he is scheduled to face off against Boy Niang 2 in a long-awaited wrestling match. This bout, which has been postponed multiple times due to injuries and administrative hurdles, is now officially sanctioned and promises to be an explosive encounter. Boy Niang 2, a celebrated figure in Senegalese wrestling, views this fight as a golden opportunity to make a name for himself by defeating a global star like Reug Reug.

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Reug Reug avait créé l’exploit en infligeant à Malykhin sa toute première défaite.

For Reug Reug, this dual challenge represents more than just a test of physical prowess; it's a significant mental and strategic undertaking. He must manage the critical demands of physical recovery, adapt his training regimen for two vastly different disciplines, and withstand the intense media scrutiny that accompanies such high-profile events. This period will undoubtedly define his status as a fighter, requiring him to defend his world MMA title while simultaneously reaffirming his dominance in Senegalese wrestling. It is a high-risk, high-reward scenario, fitting for a champion known for never shying away from a challenge.

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Malykhin, piqué dans son orgueil, revient avec une seule idée en tête : reprendre son « bien » et laver l’affront.