In St. Petersburg, Artem Damkovsky fought for the lightweight (under 70kg) title, facing M-1 Selection 2010 Western European champion Mairbek ‘Beckan’ Taisumov, representing Belgium. The fate of the belt and champion’s ring was settled when Taisumov suffered a technical knockout at Artem’s hands, during the third minute of the third round (of a potential five, each lasting five minutes).
The M-1 Challenge ХХI is the main European title. However, Damkovsky views this as just another step on his path of success. The event gathers top fighters from Europe, Asia and America, each keen to become the best in the world. Artem has one more obstacle to overcome before claiming this grand title. His win in St. Petersburg opens his path to the finals. Early next year, Artem is to face whoever wins the M-1 Global world champion match between Asia and America.
Damkovsky is now the M-1 Challenge ХХI champion of Eastern Europe. He became Belarusian champion in hand-to-hand combat in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 and was named Belarusian pankration champion in 2008 and 2009, as well as the silver holder of the Unifight World Championship in 2006.
