Marat Balaev appreciation thread

[EndlessCritic]

Dude is 41 years old and the current ACB 145lb champion. (He won the vacant title against Raisov after Magomedsharipov vacated.)

In the last two years, he has handed losses to Yusuf Raisov, Adlan Bataev, and Mukhamed Kokov. His fight against Raisov is one of the best fights of 2016 for sure.



Would love to see him follow Magomedsharipov to the UFC, and go for a run for glory at 41.

 

[The ScorpioN]

What's his background? Those takedowns look sharp.

 

[ZeroGravity]

He spent 10 years in jail. Got out and worked his way up to become a champion.

https://www.combatdocket.com/2017/05/18/tales-tyurma-marat-balaev-turned-life-fairytale/

 

[EndlessCritic]

He spent 10 years in jail. Got out and worked his way up to become a champion.

https://www.combatdocket.com/2017/05/18/tales-tyurma-marat-balaev-turned-life-fairytale/

Incredible story. Would love to see him get picked up by the UFC and make a run for the title.

 

[RyanThomasMMA]

He spent 10 years in jail. Got out and worked his way up to become a champion.

https://www.combatdocket.com/2017/05/18/tales-tyurma-marat-balaev-turned-life-fairytale/

I really enjoyed writing that one. Balaev had an incredible journey.

 

[beefcake180]

Dude has the ultimate no frills tenacious in your face style. Mad respect for him

 

[Noxcho18]

Balayev is one of the toughest mofos in all of MMA. He said that he will retire after his fight vs Raisov this year.