On June 14, 2025, the former two-time GLORY Light Heavyweight Champion returns to the spotlight — this time in a new division and with a new mission. In the main event of GLORY 100, he faces none other than reigning heavyweight champion Rico Verhoeven.
After years of dominance, injuries, a stint in MMA, and a temporary departure from GLORY, Vakhitov is back at the top — and he’s not doing it alone. For his comeback, he’s chosen to team up with Joyagear. Not just a brand, but a reflection of his mindset: clean, focused, and uncompromising.
Shop Vakhitov’s Joyagear Picks Here
In 2022, Artem Vakhitov’s journey in GLORY seemed over. A mix of geopolitical turmoil and persistent injuries kept him on the sidelines. But anyone who thought the Russian had hung up his gloves for good was mistaken.
He fought his way back — first at regional Muay Thai events, then in the MMA cage. Now, he returns to where he belongs: the kickboxing ring. On June 14, he steps back onto the big stage, this time as a heavyweight challenger.
His opponent? None other than Rico Verhoeven — the long-reigning king of the division. A clash between established dominance and a returning legend. Strategy versus physical supremacy. Calm versus intensity.
Born in Prokopyevsk, Russia, and training since the age of five, Vakhitov has become one of the most technical fighters of his generation. With a background in karate, Muay Thai, and classical music, he’s developed a unique blend of focus, rhythm, and control.
He won three IFMA world titles, dominated the European amateur scene, and joined GLORY in 2013. Within a few years, he sat atop the light heavyweight division, defeating big names like Saulo Cavalari, Zack Mwekassa, and Danyo Ilunga.
His string of title defenses and his crisp, calculated style made him a favorite among purists and a nightmare for opponents. But after a controversial split decision loss to Alex Pereira and lingering hand injuries, his future seemed uncertain.
Then came the comeback — and what a comeback it was. In 2021, he defeated Pereira in the rematch and reclaimed his title. Now, he wants to write one final chapter in his legacy: a heavyweight world title. Against the biggest name in the sport.
The announcement of Vakhitov vs. Verhoeven has sent shockwaves through the kickboxing world. While Verhoeven is known for his dominance, physicality, and five-round experience, Vakhitov brings something few opponents have: a plan.
His strength lies in execution — in neutralizing his opponent’s game, reading patterns, and controlling the tempo. Where others buckle under pressure, Vakhitov stays composed and precise.
His preparation for GLORY 100 is intense yet calculated. He’s building strength without losing speed, studying his opponent, and relying on the tools that have always led him to victory.
With Joyagear by his side, he’s chosen gear that’s as functional as it is stylish — made for athletes who take every training, every round, every second seriously.
Vakhitov’s fight against Rico Verhoeven is more than a title bout — it’s a cultural moment. A new generation of combat sports fans is about to meet an icon who’s not just protecting his legacy, but redefining it.
For Joyagear, this partnership is about more than sponsorship — it’s an alliance with someone who embodies what we stand for. No hype. No shortcuts. Just the path of constant growth — the path of the fighter.
The partnership between Artem Vakhitov and Joyagear is built on shared values: Discipline. Dedication. Detail.
Starting today, he officially joins the Joyagear family — not just as someone who wears our gear, but as a true representative of our philosophy.
Expect exclusive content, behind-the-scenes footage, and a limited-edition collection inspired by Vakhitov’s return to the top.
He wears Joyagear during training. During fight week. And when he steps back into the ring.
On June 14, it begins. The comeback is complete. The war resumes.
What sets Artem Vakhitov apart from other top-level athletes is his exceptional versatility. Outside the ring, he’s a classically trained musician — a rare combination of physical mastery and artistic discipline. That balance of body and mind is reflected in his in-ring style: controlled, rhythmic, and deadly effective.
He’s not a showman — he’s a strategist.
Not a talker — a technician.
Which is exactly why he fits the Joyagear ethos: gear for those who don’t shout, but show up and perform.
Shop the gear. Follow the mission. Witness GLORY 100.
Artem Vakhitov x Joyagear — where style meets strength.
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