Starting out with karate and taekwondo at the age of 11, he then took on jiu-jitsu. Maximov wrestled while in high school, having a very successful run on the Chico High wrestling team, with 137 wins against 37 losses. He would continue wrestling while attending college, first wrestling for Clackamas Community College and, briefly, at Oregon State, earning All-American honors during his second season at Clackamas Community College.[2][3]
Through an introduction through his father being friends with a training partner of the Diaz brothers, Nick started training at Nate Diaz Academy in Stockton.[4][5]
Mixed martial arts career
Early career
Making his MMA professional debut at KOTC Terminal Velocity, he defeated Nick Piecuch via TKO in the first round, followed by a second round kimura at Hard Fought Championships 1 against Bruno Casillas. He would go on to defeat William Hope via TKO in round one at Iron Pit Promotions High Desert Brawl 14, before picking up a rear-naked submission in the first round at KOTC Return to Order.[6]
Maximov faced Johnny James Jr. at LFA 91. He won the bout via rear-naked choke in the second round.[7][8]
Maximov was scheduled to face Matheus Scheffel in a Light Heavyweight bout at Dana White's Contender Series 36 on November 17, 2020.[9] However, Scheffel pulled out of the bout and was scheduled at Heavyweight against Oscar Cota, who also had his opponent pull out. He won the fight via unanimous decision, however wasn't awarded a UFC contract.[10]
Ultimate Fighting Championship
In June 2021, it was announced that Maximov had signed with the UFC.[11]
Maximov was scheduled to make his UFC debut against Karl Roberson on September 25, 2021, at UFC 266.[12] However, due to medical issues Roberson was forced to withdraw from the event and he was replaced by promotional newcomer Cody Brundage.[13] Maximov won his debut via unanimous decision.[14]
In his sophomore performance, Maximov faced Punahele Soriano on February 5, 2022, at UFC Fight Night 200.[15] He won the fight via split decision.[16] 12 out of 16 media scores gave it to Maximov.[17]
In late October 2022, it was reported that Maximov was released by the UFC.[22]
Post-UFC Career
In his first fight since leaving the UFC, Maximov faced TUF 23 veteran Elias Urbina at Fury FC 95 on August 2, 2024. He would win the fight via submission in the first round.[23]
