Senegalese champion Reug Reug is preparing to write a new chapter in his mixed martial arts history. The ONE Championship world heavyweight titleholder will face Russian Anatoly Malykhin once again in a highly anticipated rematch, scheduled for May 15, 2026, in Bangkok at "The Inner Circle" event. After achieving a monumental feat by defeating Malykhin in their first encounter, Reug Reug made headlines by becoming one of the few African fighters to win a world title in a major international MMA organization. This historic victory significantly solidified his status as a Senegalese sporting icon.

This time, the challenge will be even greater for the Senegalese representative. Highly anticipated by MMA fans worldwide, this rematch will pit two fighters against each other, both determined to assert their dominance in the heavyweight division.

On one side, Reug Reug will be looking to confirm his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion, while on the other, Anatoly Malykhin will do everything in his power to reclaim his lost title. The stakes are high for both athletes, who find themselves in the international spotlight.

Confident and buoyed by the unwavering support of the Senegalese public, Reug Reug exudes composure ahead of this crucial match. The champion is determined to prove that his first victory was no fluke and that he now possesses the experience and technical skills necessary to reign supreme in the world of MMA. This fight, which promises to be electrifying, is already shaping up to be one of the major sporting events of the year for all combat sports fans.