Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev: The Disciplined Dagestani Dominator and UFC Lightweight Champion

Islam Makhachev, born on September 27, 1991 in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, is one of the most dominant fighters in the UFC's lightweight division. Makhachev is known for his impeccable wrestling skills, his fighting intelligence, and his methodical approach in the octagon. A protégé of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov and a UFC Lightweight Champion, Makhachev has quickly cemented his position as one of the best fighters in the world.

Early Life and Career

Islam Makhachev grew up in Dagestan, a region of Russia known for its rich wrestling and martial arts tradition. Like many fighters from the region, Makhachev began wrestling and sambo at a young age, and quickly established himself as one of Dagestan’s most talented fighters. He trained under Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, the father of Khabib Nurmagomedov, who was one of the most respected coaches in the MMA world.

Makhachev had an impressive background in sambo, where he became a world champion, before switching to MMA. He quickly developed into a complete fighter with strong grappling and wrestling skills, as well as improved striking techniques.

Rise in the UFC

Makhachev made his UFC debut in 2015 against Leo Kuntz, winning the fight via second-round submission. From there, he began a rise through the lightweight division. Although he lost his second UFC fight to Adriano Martins via knockout, Makhachev quickly recovered and began an impressive winning streak.

With his methodical approach and excellent ground control, Makhachev dominated many of his opponents in subsequent fights. He developed into one of the best grapplers in the UFC and was often compared to his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, due to their shared style of aggressive, wrestling-based dominance.

Championship and Dominance

On October 22, 2022, at UFC 280, Makhachev reached the pinnacle of his career when he defeated Charles Oliveira for the vacant UFC Lightweight Championship. Makhachev won the fight via submission in the second round to capture the title and cement his position at the top of the division. The win was all the more impressive given that Oliveira is known for his dangerous ground game, but Makhachev showed that he is capable of outclassing even the best ground fighters.

With this victory, Makhachev followed in the footsteps of his mentor Khabib, becoming the second Dagestani fighter to capture the UFC Lightweight Championship. His victory was celebrated by fight fans worldwide and marked the beginning of a new period of dominance in the lightweight division.

Style and Technique

Islam Makhachev is known for his dominant wrestling and grappling skills, which he combines with excellent control and positioning on the ground. His style is focused on unsettling his opponents by controlling them and limiting their offensive opportunities. Makhachev has a methodical approach where he gradually wears his opponents down by keeping them on the ground and restricting their movement.

While his wrestling skills are his greatest asset, Makhachev has improved his striking significantly over the course of his career. He is able to engage in stand-up combat and use his punches and kicks effectively to create opening opportunities for takedowns.

Makhachev is praised for his patience in the octagon and his ability to execute each fight in a controlled and planned manner. His fighting intelligence and discipline make him a dangerous opponent for any fighter in the lightweight division.

Relationship with Khabib Nurmagomedov

Makhachev has a close relationship with Khabib Nurmagomedov, who is not only his teammate but also an important mentor. Makhachev has often been seen as Khabib’s natural successor at lightweight, and the parallels between their styles and their backgrounds in Dagestan have reinforced that comparison. Khabib has played an active role in coaching and mentoring Makhachev since his retirement, which has contributed to his success.

Influence and Future

With his impressive performances and dominance in the lightweight division, Makhachev is already considered one of the best fighters in the history of the division. He is a role model for many young fighters, especially in Russia and Dagestan, and his success has contributed to the growth of MMA in the region.

Conclusion

Islam Makhachev is one of the most dominant fighters in the UFC and a symbol of Dagestani power in the MMA world. His combination of exceptional wrestling skills, fighting intelligence and discipline make him one of the most dangerous and respected champions in the lightweight division. With his strong ties to Khabib Nurmagomedov and his determination to retain his title, Makhachev is expected to remain at the top of the UFC for many years to come.