Andrey Andreevich Koreshkov Bio
Andrey Andreevich Koreshkov is a Russian mixed martial artist competing in the welterweight division of the Professional Fighters League (PFL). He is best known as the former Bellator Welterweight World Champion and has been active in professional MMA since 2010.
Early Life and Background
Born on August 23, 1990, in Omsk, Russia, Andrey Koreshkov grew up in his hometown where he developed an early interest in combat sports. Details about his family and early education are not widely publicized, but his upbringing in Omsk laid the foundation for his future career in mixed martial arts. Koreshkov’s training incorporated pankration, a style that influenced his fighting stance and approach in the cage.
Path to MMA
Koreshkov began his professional MMA career in 2010, initially competing in Russia where he built an undefeated record of 8–0. His early success, marked by a combination of technical knockouts and submissions without any fights going to decision, quickly established him as a promising talent. His performances caught the attention of international promotions, leading to his debut in the United States for Bellator MMA in 2012.
Andrey Koreshkov Career
Early Career (2010–2012)
Starting his professional journey in October 2010, Koreshkov fought exclusively in Russia, compiling an undefeated streak with a total of eight wins. His aggressive style and finishing ability earned him recognition as a top welterweight prospect by MMA media. This early phase was crucial in honing his skills and preparing him for competition on a larger stage.
In 2012, Koreshkov made his Bellator debut in the United States, quickly making an impact by winning his first fight via first-round knockout. This marked the beginning of his rise in the international MMA scene.
Bellator Breakthrough (2012–2019)
Koreshkov’s Bellator career began with a series of victories, including wins over Tiawan Howard, Derrick Krantz, and Jordan Smith. He advanced through tournament stages with notable technical knockouts and unanimous decision victories. His performance in the Bellator welterweight tournament earned him a title shot.
In July 2013, Koreshkov challenged Ben Askren for the Bellator Welterweight Championship but lost via TKO in the fourth round. Undeterred, he continued to compete and won the Bellator season ten welterweight tournament in 2014, securing another title opportunity.
Koreshkov captured the Bellator Welterweight Championship in July 2015 by defeating Douglas Lima via unanimous decision. He successfully defended the title against Benson Henderson in 2016 before losing it back to Lima later that year. Throughout his Bellator tenure, Koreshkov was known for his dynamic striking, including a memorable spinning back kick knockout in 2018.
He participated in multiple high-profile bouts, including a trilogy with Douglas Lima and fights against top contenders such as Lorenz Larkin. Koreshkov’s Bellator career was marked by resilience and a blend of striking and grappling skills.
Professional Fighters League Era (2024–Present)
In 2024, Koreshkov transitioned to the Professional Fighters League, debuting against Magomed Umalatov. Despite a tough loss by unanimous decision, he rebounded with a unanimous decision victory over Goiti Yamauchi. Looking ahead, Koreshkov is scheduled to compete in the 2025 PFL Welterweight Tournament, signaling his continued presence at the elite level of MMA competition.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Koreshkov fights with a pankration stance, blending striking and grappling techniques effectively. His reach of 193 cm and height of 185 cm provide him with physical advantages in the welterweight division. Known for his powerful kicks and technical submissions, Koreshkov combines aggression with strategic fight IQ, often utilizing dynamic striking such as spinning back kicks and flying knees.
Notable Events and Milestones
Koreshkov’s career highlights include winning the Bellator Welterweight World Championship and defending it successfully, as well as multiple tournament victories within Bellator. His trilogy of fights with Douglas Lima and his knockout of Vaso Bakočević with a spinning back kick are standout moments. His transition to PFL marks a new chapter in his career.
Andrey Koreshkov Career Wins
Throughout his career, Andrey Koreshkov has amassed a professional record of 28 wins and 6 losses. His victories include a mix of knockouts, submissions, and decisions, showcasing his versatility as a fighter.
Bellator MMA Highlights
Koreshkov secured numerous wins in Bellator, including tournament championships and title defenses. His first Bellator win came by knockout in his US debut in 2012. He claimed the welterweight title in 2015 and defended it successfully before losing it in a rematch. His most recent Bellator win was a split decision over Lorenz Larkin in 2023.
Other Wins and Performances
Outside Bellator, Koreshkov has competed in other promotions such as Shlemenko Fighting Championship, where he won via TKO in 2022. His early career in Russia featured several finishes that established his reputation as a formidable welterweight contender.
Andrey Koreshkov Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Details about Koreshkov’s family background are limited publicly. There is no verified information regarding a family lineage in combat sports or martial arts.
Personal Life
Koreshkov resides in Omsk, Russia. Information about his marital status, spouse, or children is not publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
Andrey Koreshkov is set to compete in the 2025 PFL Welterweight Tournament, aiming to make a significant impact in the league. After a mixed start in the PFL with a loss and a win in 2024, Koreshkov’s experience and skill set position him as a strong competitor. His performance will be closely watched as he seeks to add to his legacy in professional MMA. Teaming with RusFighters Sport Club, Koreshkov continues to refine his strategy and conditioning to contend at the highest level in 2025.