HomeUFCFrom UFC Champion to Hollywood Star: The Incredible Journey of Oleg Taktarov

From UFC Champion to Hollywood Star: The Incredible Journey of Oleg Taktarov

Discover the incredible journey of Oleg Taktarov, from UFC Champion to Hollywood star. Learn about his transition from cage fighting to the silver screen and his notable roles in films such as Air Force One and Bad Boys II.

Fight Result
Oleg Taktarov vs. Dan Severn Eliminated due to a cut
Oleg Taktarov vs. Dave Beneteau Won by submission
Oleg Taktarov vs. Anthony Macias Won by submission
Oleg Taktarov vs. Tank Abbott Won by rear-naked choke

Oleg Taktarov, the UFC tournament winner, has made a remarkable transition from cage fighting to the silver screen. With a background in judo and sambo, Taktarov was one of the first Russians to compete in the world of mixed martial arts. Despite being eliminated in his debut at UFC 5, he was invited back for the following tournament and secured his place in the final with two quick-fire submissions. The final was a grueling 18-minute battle against MMA cult hero Tank Abbott, which Taktarov ultimately won with a rear-naked choke. Taktarov’s octagon career came to an end with a rematch against Dan Severn in The Ultimate Tournament. However, he continued to compete in martial arts events while pursuing his passion for acting. Taktarov has played notable roles in films such as Air Force One, 15 Minutes, and Bad Boys II, and has worked alongside Hollywood stars including Harrison Ford, Robert de Niro, Will Smith, and Martin Lawrence. His most recent major role was in Netflix’s The Man from Toronto. Despite his success in Hollywood, Taktarov remains proud of his UFC 6 Championship, which involved winning three fights in one evening, often against opponents with a significant weight difference. Taktarov’s journey from UFC Champion to Hollywood star is a testament to his determination and talent.

Oleg Taktarov, the UFC tournament winner, has made a remarkable transition from cage fighting to the silver screen. With a background in judo and sambo, Taktarov was one of the first Russians to compete in the world of mixed martial arts. Unlike today’s pay-per-view events, Taktarov’s debut in the octagon was at UFC 5, a one-night tournament. Despite being eliminated due to a gruesome cut in his clash with Dan Severn, Taktarov was invited back for the following tournament and secured his place in the final with two quick-fire submissions. The final was a grueling 18-minute battle against MMA cult hero Tank Abbott, which Taktarov ultimately won with a rear-naked choke. Taktarov’s octagon career came to an end with a rematch against Dan Severn in The Ultimate Tournament. However, he continued to compete in martial arts events while pursuing his passion for acting. Taktarov has played notable roles in films such as Air Force One, 15 Minutes, and Bad Boys II, and has worked alongside Hollywood stars including Harrison Ford, Robert de Niro, Will Smith, and Martin Lawrence. His most recent major role was in Netflix’s The Man from Toronto. Despite his success in Hollywood , Taktarov remains proud of his UFC 6 Championship, which involved winning three fights in one evening, often against opponents with a significant weight difference. Taktarov’s journey from UFC Champion to Hollywood star is a testament to his determination and talent.