Comprehensive Profile of UFC Fighter Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev is a Russian professional mixed martial artist and former Sambo competitor. He currently competes in the Lightweight division in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he is the current UFC Lightweight Champion. A professional competitor since 2010, Makhachev was the combat sambo world champion at 74 kilograms in 2016. As of 7 March 2023, he is #3 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings.
Fighting History
Makhachev began training in combat sambo at the age of 10. He quickly rose through the amateur ranks, winning numerous regional and national championships. In 2016, he won the World Combat Sambo Championship at 74 kilograms.
Makhachev made his professional MMA debut in 2010. He won his first 13 fights, all by submission or knockout. In 2015, he signed with the UFC.
Makhachev made his UFC debut in 2015 with a win over Leo Kuntz. He has since won 12 consecutive fights in the UFC, including wins over Arman Tsarukyan, Davi Ramos, and Drew Dober.
In February 2023, Makhachev defeated Alexander Volkanovski in a controversial split decision to win the UFC Lightweight Championship.
Technique
Makhachev is a grappler at heart. He is known for his relentless wrestling and his ability to submit his opponents from any position.
Makhachev is also a proficient striker. He has a good jab and a powerful right cross. He is also dangerous in the clinch, where he can land devastating knees and elbows.
Highlights of Famous Matches
- Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan (UFC on ESPN 18)
Makhachev and Tsarukyan were two of the most promising young lightweights in the UFC when they met in 2021. Makhachev dominated the fight, taking Tsarukyan down and controlling him for most of the three rounds. He won the fight by unanimous decision.
- Islam Makhachev vs. Davi Ramos (UFC 267)
Ramos was one of the most dangerous submission artists in the UFC lightweight division. Makhachev showed off his own grappling skills in this fight, submitting Ramos with a rear-naked choke in the first round.
- Islam Makhachev vs. Drew Dober (UFC 263)
Dober was a tough and durable fighter who had never been submitted in the UFC. Makhachev once again showed off his grappling skills, submitting Dober with a triangle choke in the third round.
- Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski (UFC 284)
Volkanovski was the UFC featherweight champion and one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. Makhachev defeated Volkanovski in a controversial split decision to win the UFC lightweight championship.
Conclusion
Islam Makhachev is one of the best lightweights in the UFC. He is a complete fighter with a strong wrestling game, a good striking game, and a knack for finishing fights. He is the current UFC Lightweight Champion and is poised to have a long and successful career in the UFC.
