Full Real Name: Islam Ramazanovich Makhachev
| Date of Birth | October 27, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Makhachkala, Russia |
| Ethnicity | Lak |
| Parentage | Father: Ramazan Makhachev |
| Mother: Zaira Makhacheva | |
| Brother | Kurbanismail Makhachev |
| Disciplines | Combat Sambo, Mixed Martial Arts |
| Training Partner | Khabib Nurmagomedov |
| Division | Lightweight (UFC) |
| Height | 5’10” (178 cm) |
| Reach | 70 inches (178 cm) |
| Association | UFC |
| Ranking | #1 Lightweight Contender (as of April 2024) |
| Record | 24-1-0 (Win-Loss-Draw) |
| Significant Strikes Accuracy | 48% |
| Takedown Average | 3.87 per 15 minutes |
| Submission Average | 1.80 per 15 minutes |
| Finish Rate | 62.5% (15 finishes in 24 wins) |
| Current Title | None |
Early Life and Amateur Career
Born in Makhachkala and raised in the remote village of Burshi, Islam Makhachev comes from humble beginnings. Growing up, his family consisted of his parents and an elder brother named Kurbanismail. His father worked as a driver and grew tomatoes, while his mother stayed home, managed a small café, and took care of the household.
The young Makhachev began practicing combat sambo at a local gym under Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, alongside future UFC superstar Khabib Nurmagomedov, whom he met at age nine. Under Abdulmanap’s guidance, Makhachev excelled in the sport, representing Russia internationally and earning several accolades.
Professional MMA Career
M-1 Global (2010–2014)
Makhachev compiled an impressive 5-1 record fighting for M-1 Global, competing mostly in regional events around Russia. During this time, he claimed five stoppage victories—four submissions and one TKO.
Notable Opponents
- Yuri Ivlev:Makhachev submitted Ivlev via armbar in the second round, improving his record to 9-1.
- Ivica Truscek:In his last appearance for M-1 Global, Makhachev beat Truscek via submission in the third round, extending his streak to six straight wins.
UFC (2015–Present)
After joining the UFC roster in late 2014, Makhachev has maintained an outstanding record, going 15-0 with eight finishes (five submissions and three knockouts). Along the way, he picked up key victories over notable names like Chris Wade, Gleison Tibau, Nik Lentz, Arman Tsarukyan, and Dan Hooker.
Notable Opponents
- Chris Wade:At UFC 192, Makhachev outgrappled Wade en route to a lopsided unanimous decision win.
- Alexander Volkanovski:In their first meeting at UFC 242, Makhachev used superior wrestling to neutralize Volkanovski, winning via unanimous decision. They had a rematch at UFC 256, where Makhachev scored a highlight reel head kick knockout.
Upcoming Fight Against Dustin Poirier
At UFC 302 on June 1st, 2024, Islam Makhachev takes on fellow top lightweight contender Dustin Poirier. As previously discussed, many experts believe that Makhachev’s superior grappling skills will grant him the edge in this matchup. Nevertheless, Poirier brings dangerous striking power and experience to the cage, ensuring that fans are in store for an entertaining affair.
With only days remaining until fight night, the entire MMA community eagerly awaits the conclusion of this tantalizing lightweight duel. Who will prevail, and whose legacy will grow stronger? Only time will tell.
Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski
Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski faced off in a historic matchup at UFC 284 on February 12, 2023, marking the first instance of a No. 1 versus No. 2 ranked matchup in the promotion’s history. The highly anticipated lightweight title fight saw Makhachev retain his belt via a unanimous decision victory over Volkanovski.
Background
Initially scheduled for UFC 284, Volkanovski stepped up to replace Tony Ferguson on short notice following an injury sustained by Beneil Dariush. With less than two weeks to prepare, Volkanovski entered the Octagon seeking to dethrone Makhachev and capture his second UFC title. Meanwhile, Makhachev aimed to defend his crown and further cement himself as one of the best lightweights in the world.
Fight Analysis
Throughout the contest, both men displayed extraordinary skills and resolve, battling tooth and nail for every inch of space. In the end, Makhachev proved too much for Volkanovski to handle, emerging triumphantly via unanimous decision.
Here’s a breakdown of the fight:
Round One
Makhachev immediately shot for a single leg takedown, pinning Volkanovski against the fence. Unable to escape, Volkanovski spent much of the round defending against Makhachev’s relentless grappling attack.
Round Two
Volkanovski found more success in the second frame, stuffing Makhachev’s takedown attempts and landing crisp combinations on the feet. Still, Makhachev remained persistent, constantly pressuring forward and threatening with takedowns.
Round Three
Makhachev regained control in the latter stages of the fight, once again dragging Volkanovski to the canvas. From there, he methodically advanced to full mount, raining down heavy leather upon the exhausted Australian. Though Volkanovski survived the onslaught, he was unable to turn the tide in his favor.
Post-Fight Awards
Following the thrilling display of skill and tenacity, the Nevada State Athletic Commission awarded both fighters with bonuses for their efforts:
Fight of the Night: Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski
Legacies
While Volkanovski fell short in his bid for dual-division glory, he nonetheless etched his name in UFC history as part of its first true No. 1 versus No. 2 matchup. For Makhachev, the victory served as validation of his place among the greatest lightweights of all time.
Looking ahead, speculation abounds regarding a possible trilogy fight between the pair, particularly given Volkanovski’s insistence on redemption. Until then, however, fans can revel in the memory of an epic clash between two elite combatants.