Batu Khasikov vs. Warren Stevelmans, May 4

Thursday, 19 April 2012 17:44

Written by Rian Scalia

Batu Khasikov was looking to fight Mike Zambidis on June 7, but the fight was postponed due to Zambidis opting to fight in K-1 on May 27. While, it's unclear if Khasikov will still fight on June 7, he's got another fight lined up, and it's pretty soon.

Khasikov will take on Warren Stevelmans on May 4. The fight will take place where Khasikov grew up, in Elista, Republic of Kalmykia, Russia. The venue is Uralan Footbal Stadium, which seats about 10 000 people. Khasikov has a very big fanbase, particularly from the Kalmyk community that he is a part of. The flag of Kalmykia is always present in the crowd when he fights and with this fight actually being in Kalmykia, expect a big crowd turnout.

Warren Stevelmans is a pretty good opponent to bring in for Khasikov. He's not a top fighter but is competitive enough and has a style that should make for a good fight.

2011 was a breakout year for Khasikov, who entered the year a nobody, and left with two wins over long time K-1 stars Albert Kraus and Mike Zambidis. Hopefully he'll fight more than twice this year, and I'd also love to see him in K-1, but that doesn't seem likely until at least next year. His promoters seem content to have him fill venues in Russia while bringing in good competition.

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