Blagoy Ivanov is a distinguished Bulgarian mixed martial artist and accomplished Sambo practitioner, renowned for his impressive career in the Heavyweight division. He began his professional journey in mixed martial arts in Bulgaria, where he quickly made a name for himself with a record of two wins and one no contest. His transition to international competition saw him sign a three-fight deal with World Victory Road, where he showcased his skills by defeating Pride FC veteran Kazuyuki Fujita by split decision, despite suffering injuries during the match.
Ivanov’s career took a significant leap when he joined Bellator MMA in 2011. He debuted with a first-round TKO victory over William Penn, setting the stage for a series of remarkable performances. Notably, he secured victories against seasoned fighters such as Ricco Rodriguez and Derrick Mehmen, demonstrating his prowess with a combination of striking and submission techniques. His success in Bellator culminated in a runner-up finish in the Season 10 Heavyweight Tournament, further solidifying his reputation in the sport.
In 2015, Ivanov transitioned to the World Series of Fighting (WSOF), where he captured the WSOF Heavyweight Championship and successfully defended his title four times. His ability to adapt and excel in various fighting styles has made him a formidable opponent in the ring.
Ivanov’s tenure in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) began in 2018, where he faced elite competitors, including former champion Junior dos Santos. His resilience and skill were evident as he secured victories against notable fighters like Ben Rothwell and Tai Tuivasa. Ivanov’s journey reflects his dedication to the sport and his continuous pursuit of excellence, making him a prominent figure in mixed martial arts.