One of Europe’s youngest prospects, with more professional wins under his belt at 19 than many much older fighters, debuted in M-1 Global at M-1 Challenge 31, which took place on March 16, 2012. But he was immediately confronted by an undefeated Russian fighter. David Kozma (Czech Republic), 7-2, faced Marat Gafurov (Legion), 4-0.

A newly crowned Russian ADCC grappling champion, Marat Gafurov, at 27, held the world title in pankration and the title of International Master of Sports in hand-to-hand combat. Marat also confirmed his high level of skill in mixed martial arts, competing in four fights, all four of which he won decisively. In his debut fight, Marat entered a weight class different from his usual heavier weight class, competing in the 77 kg weight class against the highly experienced Sheikh-Magomed Aropkhanov. Unfazed by his opponent’s extensive resume, experience, and formidable name, Gafurov neutralized Sheikh-Magomed’s strengths, forced the fight to his liking, and ultimately won confidently by decision. Now he had to climb another rung on the ladder to the championship.

Marat Gafurov’s opponent was the equally talented Czech grappler David Kozma (7-2). David began competing professionally almost immediately after it became legal: just three and a half months after his 18th birthday. The young fighter’s career didn’t start off particularly well, but he quickly settled into the professional ranks: in 2011, he scored six straight stoppage victories in just nine months, becoming the Gladiator Championship Fighting champion and the Czech Republic’s top lightweight – all at the age of 19!

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