The Russian Assassin: Sergei Kharitonov

On February 12th Strikefoce is going to have the first of 2 events to kick off their Heavyweights Grand Prix. The Strikeforce association sure matched up some tough fights to kick it off. One of the more explosive fights on the card come February 12th will be Arlovski vs. Kharitonov. While most MMA fans are acquainted with Andrei Arlovski, not too many know Sergei Kharitonov, at least the United States fan base.

Both these men hold dynamite in their hands. While Arlovski might be the more sound technical striker, Kharitonov is known for the unorthodox style of striking which seems to throw off opponents. His experiences in K1 and a long career in Pride will help take away the big show jitter bugs. When you watch some of Kharitonov's fights, you wonder how he has the intimidating record of 17-4. Sergei possess the "kill or be killed" attitude when he steps into the ring. When Sergei smells blood, he turns into a shark and is relentless with his punches, knees and kicks. Sergei has about an average fight length of 4-5 minutes, but he is no stranger to a grueling match. In 2004, while fighting for Pride, a match against Semmy Schilt went 9:19 before he ended it with a (T)KO due to punches.

This fight is sure to turn into a downright dog fight between 2 fighters who are no stranger to a tough match. Look for Kharitonov to try and keep the fight standing against a well versed Sambo submission wrestler in Arlovski. Sergei has been questionable when working off his back. Kharitonov possess a granite chin.-the longer the fight stays on the feet, the more in control Kharitonov will be.

If Sergei can keep his striking compact and not leave openings, then his chance of surviving and taking Arlovski out are great.  Kharitonov sometimes gets anxious when fighting and tends to drop his hands after combinations. With a striker as deadly as Arlovski, one mistake will leave him waking up face down on the canvas asking "what happened?"

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By Jeffrey Meinecke
ProFighting-fans.com MMA Staff Writer