Monson vs. Taktarov on 4/16 in Russia
News-4-U.ru reports that former title challenger Jeff Monson, 45, will be fighting UFC 6 tournament champion Oleg Taktarov, 48, on April 16, at The Battle on Sura 5, in Penza, Russia.
Bellator MMA has earned some record breaking ratings viewings with older fighters in MMA, that are no longer capable of fighting the best. Tito Ortiz, Kimbo Slice, and Stephan Bonnar can still put a massive number of asses in seats and couches. The trend may be taking hold in Russia as well.
News-4-U.ru reports that former UFC title challenger Jeff Monson, 45, will be fighting UFC 6 tournament champion Oleg Taktarov, 48, on April 16, at Battle on Sura 5, in Penza, Russia. Penza is a city of 500,000, about 400 miles from Moscow. Taktarov is a native Russian; Monson was recently granted citizenship.
‘The Russian Bear’ has not fought since 2008, when he defeated a notably diminished Mark Kerr. He has become a successful actor, with roles in National Treasure, Bad Boys 2, Predators, Air Force One, and 15 Minutes, among many others. Since 2012 he has headed the Federation of Mixed Martial Arts of Russia. All of Taktarov’s losses were by KO or decision; he has never tapped.
Moson has never stopped fighting, and most recently earned a win over Ukrainian Anton Lotkova? at Fight Stars 2? on March 19 in Balakovo, Russia. ‘The Iceman’ won via his trademark Monson Choke.