Formerly known as Sultan Tikhaev, Alexander Yakovlev is recognized as an aggressive welterweight competitor who’s competed in the M-1, Pro FC, Shooto Russia, and Bodog Fight promotions. Yakovlev’s martial arts background included training in sambo and freestyle wrestling prior to turning his attention to professional fighting at the age of nineteen.

A rangy southpaw, Yakovlev prefers to work his striking from the outside. That preference is aided by the Russian’s considerable reach and footwork, allowing Yakovlev to get in and out of striking range well. He’s demonstrated well rounded kickboxing abilities in utilizing a good jab and a nice straight left, and showcasing quick low and high kicks – especially from the left side.

A well rounded grappler, Yakovlev is capable of attacking from a variety of positions on the mat. He’s certainly comfortable off his back, where his long limbed frame aids in his armbar and triangle attacks. His submission skills are a bi-product of his sambo background, and Yakovlev’s shown the capacity to utilize them from multiple positions. From top position he works a strong ground and pound game that although controlled, features an aggressive and accurate attack of punches and hammerfists. He’s adept at forcing his opponent to concede back mount where Yakovlev makes use of a dangerous rear naked choke. Yakovlev’s freestyle wrestling background is also prevalent, having demonstrated good balance and nice body lock takedowns from close.