Islam Makhachev is the UFC’s pound-for-pound king. The Dagestani, a protege of Khabib Nurmagomedov, began his combat sports career as a Sambo fighter before transitioning to MMA. Makhachev is a Judo black belt with exceptional grappling talents. With world-class grappling and exceptional striking, Makhachev is a problem for any MMA fighter.

When did Islam Makhachev make his UFC debut?

Makhachev got into the UFC as an 11-0 professional. He made his UFC debut in May 2015 against UFC 187, against Leo Kuntz. Makhachev submitted Kuntz via rear naked choke in the second round. He lost his next fight but did not lose after that.

Does Islam Makhachev hold any UFC championship belts?

Makhachev won the lightweight title at UFC 280, submitting Charles Oliveira in the second round of the main event. He has defended the title twice, against Alexander Volkanovski, the featherweight champion in the promotion at the time.