Russian Fighter Islam Makhachov's Athletic Journey: Becoming a Champion
Ready for Round Two: Makhachev vs Volkanovski Rematch
White made one call, and here it is - Makhachev against Volkanovski once more! Despite an expected bout with Oliveira falling through due to injury, the UFC lightweight champion is now set to face his previous conqueror at UFC 294.
"One fight bites the dust, and another rises to take its place. This rematch between these titans is one of the most anticipated in MMA history for the lightweight division," RIA Novosti quotes White.
Rooted in the Caucasus
Born in Makhachkala, Islam Makhachev, aka "The Eagle," came into this world on September 27, 1991. Martial arts was in his blood from an early age, with taekwondo and wushu-san-da being his first introductions, thanks to his cousin Abubakar Nurmagomedov (undefeated UFC fighter and MMA legend, Khabib Nurmagomedov's cousin).
Growing up, Makhachev faced rural bullies who saw him as a city weakling. But after winning a wushu competition, he decided to trade the football field for the gym owned by Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov - the father of MMA legend, Khabib Nurmagomedov. Makhachev also pursued higher education, as reported by "Sport-Express."
Starting his MMA Journey
Makhachev made his MMA debut in 2010 against Magomed Bekbolatov. By 2011, he took his career seriously, winning the Russian championship in combat sambo three times and claiming victory at the European Championship in 2016.
Before signing with UFC, Islam Makhachev battled it out in M-1 Global. In 2011, he knocked out Tengiz Tukhashvili and earned several impressive victories, including a submission win over Croatian Ivica Trušček.
Joining the UFC
In 2015, Makhachev joined UFC, one of the most prestigious MMA organizations globally. He started off victorious against American Leo Kuntz but lost his second bout to Brazilian Adriano Martins. However, he quickly regained momentum with his current undefeated streak of over six years, as reported by the Russian "Knowledge" Society.
Taking the Lightweight Title
Since joining UFC, Makhachev has racked up numerous wins, including knockouts and submissions. He seized the championship in his weight class at UFC 280, defeating Brazilian Charles Oliveira on October 22, 2022, via rear-naked choke in the second round.
Defending the Title
In February 2023, Makhachev went head-to-head with Australian Alexander Volkanovski to defend his title. Despite the challenge, he emerged victorious via unanimous decision. As of now, Makhachev holds over 20 wins and only one loss in the UFC. The legendary fighter remains ready for new challenges, including potential future opponents.
Enrichment Data:
Makhachev and Volkanovski will finally face each other again in the UFC's history on June 15, 2025. This fight is highly anticipated, with Makhachev defending his Lightweight Championship title against Volkanovski, who is the reigning UFC Featherweight Champion and a two-division champion contender[1].
This rematch has historical significance because it pits two reigning UFC champions from different weight classes against each other. The first encounter at UFC 284 on February 12, 2023, saw Makhachev win by unanimous decision, defending his lightweight title against Volkanovski's challenge[1][2]. This rematch further underscores the evolving nature of MMA competition and the prestige of championships.
Both fighters are regarded as top-tier athletes in the UFC. Makhachev ranks #1 in the men's pound-for-pound rankings as of late 2023, with multiple successful title defenses[1][3]. Volkanovski, on the other hand, is known for his reign in the featherweight division[1][3], making their rematch a legacy-defining showdown with potential implications for divisional dominance and pound-for-pound rankings in the UFC.
In the world of MMA, another historic bout is on the horizon as the UFC announces a news tidbit - a rematch between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski, two champions from different weight classes, is planned for June 15, 2025. This sports event, filled with anticipation, features Makhachev, who is the current Lightweight Champion, defending his title against the featherweight reigning champion and two-division contender, Volkanovski.
