How a combat sambo specialist became Bellator's first Ukrainian champion
In short: Before entering the UFC, Yaroslav Amosov built a formidable reputation through elite combat sambo. His journey from the Kyiv club 'Hermes' to the pinnacle of professional mixed martial arts includes a historic championship run and a courageous decision to stand with his country during wartime.
Born in Irpin on 9 September 1993, Amosov began training in combat sambo at age fifteen. He quickly rose through the ranks, securing major titles including three WCSF world championships between 2013 and 2015 and two ECSF European championships in 2013 and 2014. His technical prowess was evident early, demonstrated by a victory over Shamil Zavurov in the 2014 Eurasia championship via a suffocating reception.
Amosov transitioned to professional MMA with a dominant 19-fight undefeated streak, leading to his signing with Bellator in November 2017. He achieved significant milestones in the promotion, becoming the first Ukrainian-born champion in Bellator MMA history. This was cemented on 11 June 2021, when he defeated Douglas Lima via unanimous decision to claim the Bellator Welterweight World Championship.
His career has been marked by resilience. During the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Amosov remained in the country to defend it alongside figures like Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko. During this period, he was the reigning Bellator Welterweight Champion. He famously released a video showing him rescuing his championship belt, which had been hidden at his mother's home in Irpin.
After losing his title via knockout to Jason Jackson in November 2023, Amosov moved to the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He made his UFC debut in December 2025 against Neil Magny, winning via anaconda choke. In May 2026, he secured a $100,000 Performance of the Night award following a victory over Joel Álvarez.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Yaroslav Amosov
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