After losing a second successive fight inside the Octagon, Artem Lobov is considering a huge career change.
With a dearth of stars in the UFC, Artem Lobov is easily one of the most entertaining characters on the roster. It’s just unfortunate that he can’t string more than a couple of wins together.
On Friday, ‘the Russian Hammer’ got everyone talking about a card that few outside of the hardcore MMA fanbase were discussing. He did what few fighters ever do, seized the early weigh-ins to make some noise. Fighters seem to ignore the platform because these weigh-ins aren’t broadcast on the UFC’s official accounts, but media are always there to stream them.
His ‘choo choo, motherfuckers!’ speech quickly went viral. With one viewing, you can see why so many folks were sharing it. Undoubtedly, it was the highlight of the UFC Gdansk weigh-ins.
Artem Lobov (@RusHammerMMA) welcomes you aboard The Siberian Express. Choo, choo, motherf*ckers. #UFCGdansk
More: https://t.co/ucl6UNEY12 pic.twitter.com/k0aBQNp8f6
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) October 20, 2017
Unfortunately for the SBG fighter, his fight with Andre Fili on the preliminary card didn’t go as smoothly as his battle cry on the scales.
He got staggered with a huge head kick in the first round and was taken down at will for the duration of the fight. While he had some success on the feet, Fili was smart enough to make sure it didn’t stay standing for very long.
The bout may be remembered for Conor McGregor’s brainless antics from the crowd and backstage, but for Lobov, it will be remembered as another tough loss.
The referee was forced to stop the fight https://t.co/DLV6IrdBeq
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) October 21, 2017
Although Charles Rosa seems keen on taking him on inside the Octagon, Lobov may have other plans for the future. He told BT Sport after the fight that he is seriously considering swapping the cage for the ring and begin a career in professional boxing.
“I wouldn’t mind chancing my arm in boxing. I do know I have a contract with the UFC. I will talk to them. I will ask them about releasing me to allow me to take a few boxing fights. I don’t know what the story holds, but I will be in touch with them. As soon as I know, you guys will know.”
When asked about the prospect of fighting former McGregor sparring partner Paulie Malignaggi, Lobov admitted that bout would interest him. Although he’s not sure if the retired pugilist would feel the same way.
“Paulie wouldn’t be a bad fight. I know he’s after big paydays. He’s retired, so he might not be interested in a fight against me, but if he was I’d be all for it.”
Malignaggi vs Lobov? Stranger things have happened.
