Bozigit Ataev


Bazigit Atavovich Atajev is a Russian mixed martial artist and sanshou kickboxer of Kumyk heritage, who currently competes in the Light Heavyweight division of the Professional Fighters League. A professional since 2000, he has competed in RINGS and PRIDE Fighting Championships. He is known for a fierce spinning heel kick and Sambo style grappling.

Mixed martial arts career

PRIDE Fighting Championships

Atajev debuted in PRIDE in December 2002 and suffered his only loss against Dutchman Alistair Overeem at PRIDE 24. Atajev planned to make his return to PRIDE at their final event PRIDE 34 against Gilbert Yvel. However, due to a stomach illness, the bout was cancelled.
In 2008, he faced the eventual K-1 champion Remy Bonjasky in his kickboxing debut. He was defeated by knockout early in the third round.
He won the gold medal at the 2013 World Wushu Championships.

Professional Fighters League

Atajev made his debut in North America on 21 June 2018 at PFL 2 against Dan Spohn in Light heavyweight tournaments. He lost the fight by technical knockout in the third round.
In his second fight in the tournament, Atajev faced Sean O'Connell at PFL 7 on 30 August 2018. He won the fight via TKO in the first round.
In the semifinals, Atajev faced Vinny Magalhaes, losing via first-round submission.
In 2019, Atajev fought Dan Spohn in a rematch at PFL 3, winning in via first-round knockout. On 8 August at PFL 6, Atajev fought Emiliano Sordi, losing via first-round knockout. He faced Sordi again in the quarterfinals of the 2019 tournament, losing via rear-naked choke submission in the first round.

Mixed martial arts record