Vitaly Novikov was born in Russia and began dancing while he was in middle school. His first big achievement was becoming Saint-Petersburg International Ballroom and International Latin champion. Later on he became a finalist and a winner of multiple Russian and European competitions. At about the same time Vitaly started his teaching career. Then he moved to London where for several years he was studying dancing and methods of teaching with the world renowned teachers and dancers. He continued competing successfully in the United Kingdom and Europe. 

Arriving in the United States in 2001 Vitaly continued his dancing career by teaching, choreographing showcases and competing with his partner and his students both in International and American styles.

Vitaly is a regular instructor at the Stardust Ballroom Weekends.