Sergei 'The Russian Mercenary' Kharitonov Signs Deal With Strikeforce

In the future, Sergei Kharitonov will look to make a run at Alistair Overeem’s heavyweight belt.

The Dutch website, Mixfigh.nl, is reporting that the Plesetsk, Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia native has struck a deal to fight under the Strikeforce banner in 2010 and beyond.

Once hailed as the future of mixed martial arts by many familiar with the sport, Kharitonov scored victories over some of the world’s best, in the form of Murilo Rua , Semmy Schilt , Fabricio Werdum and Alistair Overeem en route to being recognized as one of the sport’s elite strikers.

As well travelled as nearly any competitor in the game today, Kharitionov has competed in, among other organizations, PRIDE Fighting Championships, RINGS, K-1 Hero’s and Dream in ten nations over the course of his ten year career.

In conjunction with registering seven victories by way of knockout as a professional mixed martial artist, Kharitonov has enjoyed a fulfilling amateur boxing career, competed as a professional kick-boxer, and has participated in Combat Sambo grappling competitions with some of the best in the world.

Despite the fact that many analysts are sceptical as to how much Kharitonov, 29, has left in his tank, as “The Russian Mercenary” has only fought on three occasions since the 2007 demise of the PRIDE Fighting Championships organization, there are hopes that the world-class striker can make an impact in a division that is arguably devoid of any type of real depth.

Although Strikeforce’s heavyweight division is home to some of the world’s top big-men in Fedor Emelianenko , the aforementioned Overeem and Brett Rogers , there is a noticeable lack of legitimate competitors at 265, and CEO Scott Coker is hoping Kharitonov, a member of the Russian military reportedly on active duty, can fill that void in the months to come.