Islam Makhachev, Originating from the village Burshi, a Dargin family resident in Makhachkala. And born on October 27th of 1991 in Makhachkala, Dagestan (Russia),. He currently competes in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Where he is the current UFC Lightweight Champion.[8] Makhachev has competed professionally since 2010. Along with becoming a combat sambo world champion in 2016 and a two-time Russian national champion at 74 kg (2014, 2016). As of 7 November 2023, he is #1 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings.
| Mixed martial arts record | |
|---|---|
| Total | 27 |
| Wins | 26 |
| By knockout | 5 |
| By submission | 12 |
| By decision | 9 |
| Losses | 1 |
| By knockout | 1 |
Early Life and Background
In his formative years, he was heavily influenced by close friends Khabib Nurmagomedov and Khabib’s father Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov in whom Abdulmanap would be the coach to both of them. Having started in Sanda (essentially Chinese kickboxing), Makhachev’s martial arts journey led to MMA.
UFC Career: Steady Rise
Islam Makhachev was successful in his UFC debut, as he submitted Leo Kuntz at UFC 187. He has since made a slow but sure move to become one of the top fighters in the lightweight division. While he did suffer a hiccup in the form of one loss early on, Makhachev then rattled off seven straight victories.
His finest moment, thus far, took him to the UFC Lightweight title as he stopped Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in October 2022. The win went a long way in crafting his legacy as one of the best fighters. And that was followed up by a defense of his title against Alexander Volkanovski, again in February 2023. The pair fought for a second time in October 2023 at UFC 294. Again resulting in victory for Makhachev who would only solidify his place among the best pound-for-pound fighters.
Makhachev boasts a more than impressive mixed martial arts record of 26-1 and is currently running on a 12-fight win streak. Putting him among the very best fighters in UFC today.
Style & Skills
Makhachev is highly regarded for his grappling and submission abilities, thanks in large part to his Sambo expertise. Throughout his career, he has tested the wrestling skills of other fighters by regularly wearing down opponents with ground-and-pound tactics in the octagon. His cautious game planning and suffocating ground control make him a natural reference to his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Although predominantly a grappler, Makhachev has come leaps and bounds with his striking in recent years. The fight with guys like Oliveira and Volkanovski is the flip side to what he is capable of. And let others know that knockout power was just one part of his game.
Personal Life and Values
A deeply religious family man, privacy has always been paramount for Makhachev. He continues to be engrained in his Dagestani roots by living there still. Islam has stayed true to his roots and religious traditions and married a cousin in 2021. He is also a man of deep faith and has lived a very simple life, indicating he was never too big for his britches.’)
Net Worth and Moreemption of the Day
Now in early 2024, Islam Makhachev has a net worth valued at around $5 million. His UFC success with nine “Performance of the Night” bonuses. High-profile pay-per-view booking and sponsorships have been well for his career money-wise. For instance, he reportedly made $532,000 in fight purses and bonuses at UFC 280 when he fought Charles Oliveira.
The wealth of one of the few sportsmen who closes his fortune is also due to investments in real estate a house worth about 800 thousand dollars located in Makhachkala (Russia). His car collection includes a Mercedes Benz G-Wagon and a Range Rover Evoque.
What about Makhachev for his next fight?
Makhachev is now the UFC Lightweight Champion. After a success-rich journey, UFC fans are excited to know of his next fight opponent by the late summer of 2024. Though he has mentioned taking new opponents, he plans only to keep his face within the pound-for-pound best. He will either get thrown to the top contenders of the lightweight division. Or he may chase rematches with Charles Oliveira and others.
The Makhachev story is one of perseverance, hard work, and an unwavering belief in his ability to get the job done. Coming from very humble beginnings in Dagestan, to the pinnacle of worldwide fame — degree level of inspiration for all aspiring fighters and fans globally.
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