Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev is one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC today. The Dagestani lightweight has been competing professionally since 2012 and currently holds a perfect 17-0 record, with eight of those victories coming inside the Octagon. Despite being only 29 years old, Makhachev has already established himself as one of the top 155lbs fighters in mixed martial arts (MMA).

Makhachev was born in Leninogorsk, Russia to a family with an impressive martial arts background. Both his father and uncle were high-level wrestlers, while his brother is a professional MMA fighter. It wasn’t long before Islam followed their footsteps into combat sports, quickly becoming one of the most sought after prospects on Europe’s regional circuit. After going 12-0 against mostly local competition he signed with UFC in 2015 and made an immediate impact by defeating veteran Adriano Martins at Fight Night 73 via unanimous decision for his first victory under their banner.

Makhachev went on to compete four more times within two years; winning all but one bout by either submission or knockout – including fan favorite Beneil Dariush at Fight Night 87 via rear naked choke in 2016 – and proved that he had what it takes to be a legitimate contender inside the octagon. In April 2018 he took another big step up when he faced off against former world champion Kajan Johnson at UFC 223 for his first main card appearance; again emerging victorious after three dominant rounds to take home yet another victory by unanimous decision.

Since then Makhachev continued to impress as he amassed win over Rafael Dos Anjos , Davi Ramos , Arman Tsarukyan And most recently Alex Hernandez . His impressive streak earned him praise not only from fans but also from notable figures such as Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn who labelled him ‘the real deal’ following his performance against Tsarukyan last June 2020 .

Currently ranked #12 amongst lightweights Islam Makhachev looks determined to keep improving both inside and outside fighting cage ; As well as working hard To climb further up ranks towards title shot . He trains alongside current UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov under tutelage Of master coach Javier Mendez At American Kickboxing Academy which can explain why people consider him “The Next Khabib”. Thus proving That no matter what happens future appears bright for young Dagestani sensation !