Artem Levin set to defend his WBC Muay Thai Light Heayweight World Title against Cheick Sidibe on February 28th in Russia

WBC Muay Thai Light Heavyweight World Champion Artem Levin will defend his title for the first time since winning the title from Kaoklai Kaennorsing in February of 2011. His opponent will be French Fighter Cheick Sidibe at the Martial Arts Festival for Russia on February 28th in Chelyabinsk, Russia. Also expected on the card is a WBC European title fight between Russian fighter Khayal Dzhaniev and French fighter Ibrahim Chiahou.

After an impressive 17 fight win streak that started in January of 2010, Levin’s streak was snapped by Fu Gao Feng in June of 2011. The loss was controversial as it seemed Levin was on his way to yet another victory, but Feng was awarded the decision. Levin has since then strung together three consecutive victories including two under the Muaythai Premier League banner.

In October of 2011, American Joe Schilling defeated Kaoklai Kaennorsing for the interim WBC Muay Thai Light Heavyweight World Championship. Schilling is now waiting for his opportunity to fight Levin and unify the titles. Three days before Levin fights Sidibe, Schilling will be fighting Canada’s Simon Marcus at Lion Fight Promotions “Battle in the Desert 5” in Las Vegas, NV in a non title bout.

Sidibe brings a record of 49-6 into his fight with Levin. He will be looking to bounce back after a decision loss to Leonlido Evora at the Tatneft Cup 2012 in December of 2011. After a three year absence Sidibe returned to action in 2011 compiling a record of 4-2 as well as claiming a National FMDA title.