When Will Artem Lobov Return To MMA?

Artem Lobov’s MMA return has been set.

Lobov, who is a close friend and training partner of Conor McGregor, has signed a one-fight deal with ARENA FIGHT Championship. He’ll meet Ylies Djiroun this December in France. The Mac Life was the first to report the news.

Lobov hasn’t competed in an MMA bout since October 27, 2018. After suffering a unanimous decision loss to Michael Johnson, Lobov asked for and was granted his UFC release. He had success in the world of bare-knuckle boxing. He picked up victories over Jason Knight and former boxing champion Paulie Malignaggi under the BKFC banner. Lobov ended up being stopped in the rematch with Knight.

Lobov had claimed he was in serious talks with KSW before the pandemic put a halt to things. This may explain why Lobov is doing a one-off with ARENA FIGHT Championship.

“The Russian Hammer” also claimed to have been entertaining an offer from Bellator. BKFC ended up giving him a deal he couldn’t refuse. Lobov has said he doesn’t rule out a move to Bellator one day if the offer is right.

Lobov’s pro MMA record stands at 13-15, 1 NC. Many agree that what Lobov brings to the table is his appeal. Some believe he stepped out of McGregor’s shadow with his BKFC run.