Russian fighter Vladislav Sukalenko has become the first confirmed member of Kuznya’s roster for the 2026 Games of the Future, the Krasnodar-based team announced on social media.

The phygital combat competition will take place Aug. 8 in Astana.

Sukalenko is a two-time Games of the Future champion. Competing for Kuznya, he won the phygital combat tournament in Kazan in 2024 before successfully defending the title in Abu Dhabi in December 2025.

Sukalenko has also competed seven times in the MMA Series promotion, compiling a 6-1 record. Four of his victories came by submission.