Russian · Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia · Born 27 October 1991Russian mixed martial artist and UFC Lightweight Champion, known for his dominant grappling and wrestling skills in the octagon.
Islam Makhachev was born in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia in 1991. He grew up training with Khabib Nurmagomedov — the two were close friends and training partners from childhood. Khabib's father Abdulmanap trained both fighters. He moved to the United States to train at the American Kickboxing Academy alongside Khabib. He made his UFC debut in 2015. He won the UFC Lightweight Championship in 2022 by defeating Charles Oliveira — with Khabib in his corner. He has defended the title five times with dominant performances. He holds the pound-for-pound number one ranking across multiple major MMA outlets. His wrestling — Dagestani sambo, with exceptional takedown accuracy, cage control and submission offence — mirrors Khabib's style with additional striking. His submission of Alexander Volkanovski in his rematch with a rear naked choke in under three minutes was one of the most technically complete title-fight performances in the UFC's recent history. He is the most dominant lightweight champion since Khabib retired undefeated. Makhachev vacated the lightweight title he had dominated and moved up to welterweight in 2025, overwhelming champion Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in New York in November to become a two-division champion and reclaim the number one pound-for-pound ranking. He entered 2026 planning to defend against the division's queue of unbeaten contenders.
Winning the UFC Lightweight Championship by submitting Charles Oliveira with an arm triangle choke at UFC 280.
How They Played
Makhachev employs a grappling-heavy fighting style rooted in his sambo and wrestling background. He excels at takedowns, ground control, and submission attempts, often overwhelming opponents with his superior conditioning and positional dominance. His striking has improved significantly over his career, allowing him to set up his takedowns more effectively.
Lasting Impact
Makhachev has continued the Dagestani dominance in UFC lightweight division following in the footsteps of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Career Honours
- UFC Lightweight Champion (2022–present)
- Pound-for-Pound #1 (multiple rankings)
- Unbeaten title defences 5
- UFC Welterweight Champion (2025)
Russian Athletes