‘That Guy’s A Legend’ – Anatoly Malykhin Credits ‘The Rock’ As Childhood Inspiration

ONE Light Heavyweight and Middleweight MMA World Champion Anatoly “Sladkiy” Malykhin has conquered a multitude of challenges thrown his way inside the Circle.

But the blueprint for his relentless pursuit of greatness traces back to an unlikely source – professional wrestling’s biggest crossover star.

Long before the Russian powerhouse was dismantling opponents across three weight divisions and etching his name in MMA history as the only fighter to simultaneously hold three major World Titles, he was a captivated child watching Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson dominate the squared circle and beyond.

Growing up in the small town of Kemerovo, Malykhin was glued to his television screen during professional wrestling’s golden era, gathering with his family to witness the theatrical spectacle that captivated audiences worldwide.

The 37-year-old told onefc.com:

“I watched it as a kid, back when it was Goldberg and CM Punk. I used to root for Goldberg and Sting. I remember how we’d all sit around the TV [and watch wrestling] as a family.”

However, it was “The Rock’s” remarkable evolution from wrestling superstar to Hollywood heavyweight that left the most lasting impression on “Sladkiy.”

Johnson is a sports entertainment icon – a former WWE Champion who transitioned to the big screen to star in blockbuster films such as “Black Adam,” “Fast & Furious,” and “Moana.”

Even today, Malykhin continues to draw motivation from Johnson’s extraordinary career. The 33-year-old Russian superstar sees “The Rock” as the ultimate example of what’s possible when raw talent meets unwavering determination.

Malykhin added:

“That guy’s a legend. He is a self-made man, from a pro wrestler to a top-tier actor. He’s living proof that with hard work, you can achieve anything.”

Is There A Future In Pro Wrestling For Anatoly Malykhin? 

As Anatoly Malykhin prepares for his highly anticipated rematch against ONE Heavyweight MMA World Champion “Reug Reug” Oumar Kane at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on November 16 at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, the Russian destroyer remains focused on reclaiming the belt that completed his unprecedented three-division reign.

But when asked about whether he’d ever consider stepping into the pro wrestling world himself, “Sladkiy” admits the thought intrigues him more than expected – especially given his deep appreciation for the art form that first inspired his competitive fire.

Malykhin said:

“I haven’t thought about it, but I think I’d do alright. I’ve got a solid grappling base, I move well for a heavyweight, and I think I’ve got a bit of acting in me too. It’d be an interesting experience.”

The Golden Team representative, whose combination of elite wrestling credentials and concussive knockout power has made him one of ONE’s most feared fighters, believes he would excel in pro wrestling. He even has an idea of what his persona would be like.

Ironically enough, Malykhin would also love an opportunity to step into this new world to take on the very same man who sparked his inspiration for combat.

The Russian superstar said:

“I’d probably be something like Goldberg. I always liked him as a kid. And I’d face…I don’t know, maybe ‘The Rock.’”