Alexandr Romanov Bio
Alexandr Romanov is a Moldovan professional mixed martial artist and freestyle wrestler born on December 11, 1990. He competes in the Heavyweight division of the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and has previously fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Known by his ring name “King Kong,” Romanov has built a reputation for his wrestling-based fighting style and holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Early Life and Background
Alexandr Romanov was born in Comrat, SSR Moldova, Soviet Union, to a Russian father and Ukrainian mother. Raised in Moldova, he began training in freestyle wrestling at the age of seven. Romanov developed his wrestling skills over many years, making four Moldovan World Teams and eight European Teams across junior and senior levels. He earned a bronze medal at the 2016 World University Championships and is a two-time United World Wrestling grappling European bronze medalist. Romanov also briefly competed in sumo wrestling, winning a silver medal at the 2016 OPEN European Cup.
He pursued higher education at Comrat State University and the Chișinău Sport Institute, studying law and pedagogy respectively. Romanov resides in Comrat, Moldova, where he continues his training and professional career.
Path to MMA
After a successful wrestling career, Romanov transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2016. Early in his MMA journey, he connected with Muay Thai coach Chelsea Edward, who introduced him to the sport and remains his coach. Romanov quickly established himself in the Moldovan MMA scene, compiling an undefeated 11-0 record primarily at Eagles Fighting Championship, where he became the heavyweight champion. His wrestling foundation and submission skills facilitated his rise through the ranks, leading to opportunities on the international stage.
Alexandr Romanov Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
Romanov began his professional MMA career in 2016, competing mainly in Moldova. His wrestling background gave him a competitive edge, allowing him to dominate opponents and secure victories through submissions and ground control. During this period, he captured the Eagles Fighting Championship heavyweight title and maintained an undefeated record, which attracted attention from larger promotions.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Breakthrough (2019–2024)
Romanov signed with the UFC in October 2019, but his debut was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related fight cancellations. He eventually debuted in September 2020, defeating Roque Martinez via arm-triangle choke. Romanov quickly made an impact with his grappling prowess, earning Performance of the Night honors after submitting Marcos Rogério de Lima with the first forearm choke in UFC history.
He continued to demonstrate his wrestling dominance with wins over Juan Espino, Jared Vanderaa, and Chase Sherman. Romanov faced setbacks with controversial decisions and a technical knockout loss to Alexander Volkov, but rebounded with a unanimous decision win over Blagoy Ivanov. His UFC tenure concluded in late 2024 after a unanimous decision victory over Rodrigo Nascimento, when his contract was not renewed.
Professional Fighters League Era (2025–Present)
In early 2025, Romanov signed with the Professional Fighters League and entered the 2025 Heavyweight Tournament. He won his quarterfinal bout against Timothy Johnson by first-round submission. A semifinal match against Valentin Moldavsky ended in a no contest due to an accidental groin strike, but Romanov advanced to the final. In the tournament final, he faced Oleg Popov and lost via split decision.
Driving Style and Strengths
Romanov’s fighting style is heavily influenced by his wrestling background, emphasizing control, takedowns, and ground submissions. His black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu complements his grappling, allowing him to secure submissions effectively. Romanov’s reach and physicality make him a formidable opponent in the heavyweight division, and his strategic approach focuses on dominating opponents on the mat.
Notable Events and Milestones
Romanov is recognized for executing the first forearm choke submission in UFC history, a highlight of his grappling skill. His rapid rise from regional champion to competing in major international promotions marks significant milestones. Despite some controversial decisions, he has maintained a strong presence in the heavyweight division with multiple high-profile victories.
Alexandr Romanov Career Wins
Throughout his career, Alexandr Romanov has amassed 19 wins out of 24 professional fights. His victories include submissions, knockouts, and decisions, showcasing his versatility and grappling expertise. Romanov’s record reflects his consistency and competitiveness at both regional and international levels.
UFC Highlights
Romanov secured several notable wins in the UFC, including his debut submission victory over Roque Martinez and the historic forearm choke finish against Marcos Rogério de Lima. His technical knockout win over Jared Vanderaa and unanimous decision over Blagoy Ivanov further demonstrate his skill set. Despite losses to top contenders like Alexander Volkov and Marcin Tybura, Romanov remained a respected heavyweight competitor.
Other Wins & Performances
Before joining the UFC, Romanov was undefeated in the Moldovan MMA circuit, capturing the Eagles Fighting Championship heavyweight title. In professional grappling, he has competed successfully in events such as Fury Pro Grappling and Pit Submission Series, earning wins by decision and submission.
Alexandr Romanov Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Romanov was born to a Russian father and Ukrainian mother and raised in Moldova. His multicultural background has influenced his identity and career. Details about his parents’ professions or involvement in sports are not publicly documented.
Personal Life
Alexandr Romanov is married and has three children. He trains with Adeboy Kechin and maintains a residence in Comrat, Moldova. Romanov balances his professional fighting career with family life, though he keeps personal details private.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Romanov transitioned to the Professional Fighters League, where he competed in the heavyweight tournament. He opened the season with a first-round submission win over Timothy Johnson, showcasing his grappling dominance. A semifinal bout ended prematurely due to an accidental foul, but Romanov advanced to the final, where he lost a close split decision to Oleg Popov. Romanov’s performance in the PFL demonstrated his continued competitiveness and adaptability in a new promotion. His partnership with Rising Tide Academy remains central to his training and preparation for future bouts.