Why Islam Makhachev is the best fighter alive

------ #IslamMakhachev #khabib #Charlesoliveira

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Islam Makhachev’s journey to the pinnacle of MMA is a story of resilience, discipline, and unyielding dedication. Born and raised in the small village of Burshi in Dagestan, Russia, Makhachev was immersed in a culture that valued combat sports as a means of discipline and identity. Growing up alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov, under the watchful eye of the legendary Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Makhachev honed his skills in sambo, a martial art that became the foundation of his dominance. A multiple-time sambo world champion, Makhachev’s grappling acumen was second to none, laying the groundwork for his eventual transition to mixed martial arts.

Makhachev made his UFC debut on May 23, 2015, against Leo Kuntz at UFC 187. Displaying the clinical grappling and positional control that would become his trademark, he secured a submission victory in the second round. However, his meteoric rise was temporarily halted in his next fight, suffering a stunning first-round knockout at the hands of Adriano Martins at UFC 192. This loss served as a turning point, igniting a relentless drive to refine his striking, fortify his defense, and return to the octagon as a more complete fighter.

From 2016 onward, Makhachev embarked on an impressive win streak, systematically dismantling a series of increasingly formidable opponents. Notable victories included dominant performances over Nik Lentz, Gleison Tibau, and Arman Tsarukyan in 2019. The Tsarukyan fight showcased one of the most technical grappling battles in recent UFC history, with Makhachev emerging victorious by unanimous decision.

His rise continued with wins over Davi Ramos, Drew Dober, and Thiago Moisés, cementing his reputation as a future title contender. In October 2021, Makhachev faced Dan Hooker on short notice, finishing him with a kimura in the first round. His relentless momentum culminated in a title shot against Charles Oliveira at UFC 280, where he claimed the lightweight championship with a second-round submission.

Makhachev successfully defended his belt in a high-stakes clash against featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, winning a hard-fought unanimous decision. Later, in their highly anticipated rematch, Makhachev made an emphatic statement by finishing Volkanovski via head kick in the opening round, solidifying his dominance as the lightweight king. Between these bouts, he defended his title against former interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier, overcoming Poirier’s experience and striking prowess to secure a submission victory in another statement performance.

Makhachev’s reign continued with a second showdown against Arman Tsarukyan in 2025, revisiting their earlier grappling war. This time, Makhachev showcased his evolution as a fighter, dominating Tsarukyan and defending his title once again.

From his sambo roots to his reign as UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev’s career is a testament to his upbringing, discipline, and the Dagestani legacy of combat sports excellence. With each challenge overcome, he continues to inspire fighters and fans alike, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats.