Kickboxing
Exclusive: Artem Vakhitov calls for a trilogy against Alex Pereira
Glory 100 live on DAZN PPV - Saturday June 14
Alex Pereira and Artem Vakhitov have met twice, with each claiming a victory. Since then, "Poatan" has signed for the UFC and Vakhitov remains the last man to defeat Pereira in Glory.
Vakhitov could see them running it back one day.
"I think it would be very interesting if this fight could happen," Vakhitov told DAZN News. "For sure, I would take the fight. I’d agree and take this opportunity because, even now, the arguments are still going on in my social media, in his social media - his fans, my fans - about who is the best. It looks like something unfinished - unfinished business."
Pereira, who coming off a defeat for the UFC light heavyweight belt against Magomed Ankalaev, would still provide a good challenge in kickboxing, according to Vakhitov.
"Alex is doing well in striking in MMA," he explained. "So it would be a good opportunity to get this fight because he’s still in a striking style.
"These two fights [between us], as I said, were very close and controversial. Now I’m sure - I’m pretty sure - I can finish that fight before the end. More easily than before."
Vakhitov, who faces Rico Verhoeven this month at Glory 100, is now calling for a trilogy against the Brazilian. He believes that, at 34, he is more powerful than ever.
"For sure, I’ve become better and better," he said. "Now I’m 34 years old, which is a top age for heavyweight, for light heavyweight.
"For my career, it’s a good age. I’ve become physically stronger and smarter. Year by year, I’ve improved. I really feel it."
