Ibragim Dauev (7-0) will lean on the guidance of mentor Anatoly Malykhin when he faces undefeated Akbar Abdullaev at ONE Fight Night 35: Buntan vs. Hemetsberger on Friday, September 5, at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
The 24-year-old Russian credits the two-division ONE MMA World Champion with helping him secure his opportunity in ONE Championship and shaping his career development.
Dauev initially contacted Malykhin seeking advice about moving to Thailand to pursue better career opportunities. The heavyweight champion immediately provided assistance and guidance.
"I first reached out to Anatoly, asking for help with my fight. He responded immediately and suggested I contact Anita. He advised me. Together, they helped me get a fight in ONE Championship," Dauev said.
Malykhin's support extended beyond professional advice. The 37-year-old picked up Dauev at the airport, arranged his accommodation, and showed him around when he first arrived in Thailand.
"He's a great person, a reliable friend, a devoted family man, and an exceptional athlete to follow," Dauev said.
The relationship has evolved from mentor and student to something deeper for both fighters.
"As a mentor, he's really great – he always tells you what to do. His mentorship has influenced me in everything, both in and out of the ring. In the ring, he toughened my character, and outside the ring, he showed me that the most important thing is to be human," Dauev said.
"Right now, I think our relationship is like a brotherhood – we're not just friends, but family. I respect him as my older brother, and he reciprocates my respect."
Dauev has maintained a perfect 3-0 record in ONE Championship and will look to extend his streak against Abdullaev (12-0). Training alongside Malykhin has raised his aspirations and confidence levels.
"It's always a pleasure to train side by side with a World Champion – you feel that you can become a champion yourself one day if you work just as hard," Dauev said.
Malykhin holds titles at light heavyweight and middleweight. He will attempt to reclaim the heavyweight crown against Oumar Kane at ONE 173 on November 16 in Tokyo, Japan.
Dauev believes both he and his mentor will achieve their goals.
"He's going to have three belts – it's going to happen. And I want to become a champion like him. If he could do it, then I can do it – I know it's just a matter of time," Dauev said.
