Islam Ramazanovich Makhachev, the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, has emerged as one of the most dominant forces in mixed martial arts (MMA) today. Born in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, on October 27, 1991, Makhachev’s journey to the pinnacle of the UFC has been anything but ordinary. His rise through the ranks of MMA is a testament to his exceptional skill, determination, and the discipline instilled in him from an early age.
A Humble Beginning in Dagestan
Makhachev’s story begins in the remote village of Burshi, located in the Republic of Dagestan, Russia. Hailing from a modest background, Makhachev’s father worked as a driver and grew tomatoes, while his mother ran a small café. His early exposure to physical activity was shaped by the culture of his homeland, where street fights were a common occurrence, often arranged by elders to instill toughness in young boys.
From a young age, Makhachev was encouraged to participate in various combat sports. He began training in taekwondo at the age of seven under the guidance of Seyfula Magomedov, a decorated champion. His interest in martial arts later shifted to sanda, where he trained alongside other future MMA stars, including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Shamil Zavurov, and Abubakar Nurmagomedov. However, after his family relocated to another town, Makhachev briefly diverted from combat sports to play soccer for two years before returning to martial arts with a renewed focus on mixed martial arts (MMA).
The Influence of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov
Makhachev’s career truly took flight after he began training under the mentorship of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib’s father. It was during this period that Makhachev’s development as a mixed martial artist accelerated. He was drawn to MMA not only for its challenge but also because he had been a UFC fan since childhood. Makhachev admired fighters like Tank Abbott and Ken Shamrock, and it was this passion that fueled his drive to succeed.
To support his training, Makhachev worked as a security guard while attending Dagestan State University, where he studied physical education and sports. His boss, recognizing his dedication, allowed Makhachev to train during working hours and continued to pay him even when he was away for training camps and competitions.
Sambo Success and the Path to MMA
Before entering the UFC, Makhachev made a name for himself in the world of combat sambo, a Russian martial art known for its emphasis on grappling and submission techniques. He won two Russian National Sambo Championships in the -74 kg division in 2014 and 2016, and in 2016, he claimed the gold medal at the World Combat Sambo Championships. His victory in the final, where he dominated Valentin Benishev of Bulgaria, was a major milestone in his career, further showcasing his world-class grappling skills.
M-1 Global: A Stepping Stone to UFC
Makhachev made his professional MMA debut in 2011 with M-1 Global, one of Russia’s most prominent MMA promotions. In his first fight, he won via knockout in the first round, quickly establishing himself as a fighter to watch. Over the next few years, Makhachev continued to showcase his impressive grappling and striking skills, accumulating victories against high-level competition.
In 2014, after an impressive string of wins, Makhachev signed with the UFC, marking the next chapter in his career. His first fight in the promotion was a second-round submission victory over Leo Kuntz at UFC 187, a clear sign of his potential.
A Bump in the Road: Makhachev’s Only Career Loss
Makhachev’s UFC journey wasn’t without its challenges. In 2015, he faced Adriano Martins at UFC 192 and suffered his only professional loss to date, a first-round knockout. The defeat was a humbling experience for Makhachev, but it proved to be a valuable learning moment, as he returned stronger and more focused than ever before.
Later, in 2016, Makhachev faced a brief setback when he tested positive for the banned substance meldonium, leading to a suspension. However, it was determined that the drug had been prescribed for a heart condition, and the suspension was lifted. Makhachev continued to train under the tutelage of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father, Abdulmanap, refining his striking and grappling.
The Path to Championship Glory
After recovering from his losses and setbacks, Makhachev embarked on a remarkable winning streak. He earned victories over notable opponents, including Nik Lentz, Gleison Tibau, and Kajan Johnson, cementing his reputation as a dangerous force in the lightweight division.
Makhachev’s breakthrough moment came in 2021 when he faced former UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael dos Anjos. After an intense build-up, Makhachev won the fight via kimura submission in the first round, further solidifying his place among the top contenders in the division.
As his stock continued to rise, Makhachev became a favorite to challenge for the lightweight title. His technical skills, particularly his grappling and wrestling, made him a formidable opponent for anyone in the division. His relentless pursuit of victory, combined with his calm and composed demeanor in the octagon, drew comparisons to his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov.
In 2022, Makhachev was finally given his chance at the lightweight title, taking on Charles Oliveira at UFC 280. Makhachev’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he dominated Oliveira with his superior wrestling and control. He won the fight via submission in the second round, claiming the UFC Lightweight Championship and securing his place as one of the most elite fighters in the world.
Makhachev’s Dominance: Pound-for-Pound King
As of November 2023, Makhachev’s dominance has been recognized on a global scale, as he was ranked #1 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings. This ranking places him at the top of the sport, ahead of other elite fighters from multiple weight classes. Makhachev’s style is characterized by his exceptional grappling, pressure, and control, which makes him a nightmare for anyone facing him in the octagon.
Makhachev’s influence continues to grow, as he has become an ambassador for Dagestan and a role model for aspiring fighters worldwide. His journey from a small village in Dagestan to the top of the UFC ranks is a testament to his perseverance and the strong cultural values that have guided him throughout his life.
With his sights set on continuing to dominate the lightweight division and potentially moving up to challenge for a second title in a different weight class, Islam Makhachev’s legacy in MMA is still unfolding, and fans can expect to see more incredible performances from this rising star.
