Sergej Maslobojev, the Lithuanian kickboxer known as “Kuvalda” and former Glory Light Heavyweight Champion, is set to face Dominykas Dirkstys in a highly anticipated bout scheduled for September 26, 2026. The fight, organized by UTMA, will grab place in the absolute weight class and has drawn significant attention from fans and media across the region.
According to UTMA officials, Maslobojev emerged victorious over Ignas Pauliukevičius at the UTMA 18 event held on April 18, 2026, at the Žalgiris Arena in Kaunas. The win came against a younger opponent and positioned Maslobojev to take on his next challenger, Dirkstys, who has been named the organization’s leader in the absolute weight division.
In the lead-up to the April 18 event, Maslobojev and Pauliukevičius engaged in a heated exchange during a press conference, trading sharp remarks ahead of their scheduled bout. Maslobojev criticized Pauliukevičius’s technical abilities, stating that he lacks the skills to compete effectively, while acknowledging his opponent’s improved appearance and confidence. He predicted the fight would unfold as a one-sided affair, saying he would “hit him until he starts singing.”
Pauliukevičius, in response, maintained composure during the confrontation, stating he would channel his emotions into performance in the ring. The tension between the two fighters highlighted the personal stakes involved in the matchup, which was promoted as one of the largest fights in Lithuanian combat sports history.
Meanwhile, Dirkstys has been preparing for his upcoming September bout, with reports indicating he issued a warning to Maslobojev ahead of their fight, claiming that “one clean strike will be enough.” This statement has added to the growing anticipation surrounding the matchup, which some outlets have described as a potential career-defining moment for both athletes.
Maslobojev, born on May 22, 1987, in Klaipėda, Lithuania, has built a distinguished career across multiple disciplines. He holds a professional boxing record of 10 wins (3 by knockout) and 3 losses, a kickboxing record of 53 wins (28 by knockout) and 8 losses, and a mixed martial arts record of 11 wins (4 by knockout, 6 by submission) and 6 losses. He opened the Champions House gym in Vilnius in 2018 and continues to train members of the Lithuanian Armed Forces.
The September 26 bout between Maslobojev and Dirkstys represents not only a significant sporting event but also a moment of interest for those following athlete preparation, recovery strategies, and the physical demands of elite combat sports. Rehydration protocols, weight management, and injury prevention remain critical components of fight camp logistics, particularly in absolute weight class competitions where athletes may face significant size disparities.
As the date approaches, both fighters continue to promote their upcoming encounter through media appearances and public statements, contributing to the growing narrative around what promises to be a pivotal moment in Baltic combat sports.
