By Islam Makhachev’s rise to the top of the UFC lightweight division has been nothing short of meteoric. The Dagestani powerhouse, trained by the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, has become one of the most feared fighters in mixed martial arts (MMA) today.
With his blend of technical precision, raw power, and unrelenting pressure, Makhachev has solidified himself as one of the premier talents in the sport, with many experts predicting he could soon etch his name in history as a two-time division champion.
Makhachev’s journey to UFC gold
Makhachev’s journey to UFC gold has been dominated by consistency and methodical skill. From his humble beginnings in Makhachkala, Dagestan, he was always destined for greatness, surrounded by a rich history of combat sports.
His grappling pedigree, forged through years of sambo training, laid the foundation for his MMA career. Under the tutelage of Khabib, a man who retired undefeated, Makhachev honed his skills, becoming the next potential representative of the Dagestani MMA revolution.
Since entering the UFC in 2015, Makhachev has maintained an impressive unbeaten streak, with only one loss in his career, a submission loss to Adriano Martins back in 2015. Since that defeat, Makhachev has reeled off 12 consecutive wins, showcasing a calm yet destructive approach to his fights. His ability to blend his world-class grappling with striking has been the key to his success, as he methodically breaks down opponents with his relentless pressure and suffocating control.
A Dominant Champion
In October 2022, Makhachev was granted the opportunity to fight for the UFC lightweight championship against the highly respected Charles Oliveira.
Many questioned whether Makhachev, though dominant, could truly step up to the level of Oliveira, who had reigned as one of the most dynamic champions in recent years.
Makhachev answered those questions emphatically. In a performance that showcased his incredible fight IQ and unshakable confidence, Makhachev dominated Oliveira, first neutralizing his dangerous jiu-jitsu game and then submitting him with a beautifully timed kimura. This victory not only cemented his position as one of the sport’s best, but it also sent a strong message: Islam Makhachev was ready to rule the lightweight division for years to come.
His UFC title reign has been marked by dominance in all aspects of the game. Whether it’s in his suffocating clinch game, devastating takedowns, or calculated striking, Makhachev has been a force to be reckoned with. The way he controls the pace of his fights, pushing his opponents into positions where they are uncomfortable, showcases his understanding of strategy and his unrivaled conditioning.
The Path to Becoming a Two-Time Division Champion
The prospect of Makhachev becoming a two-time division champion is not as far-fetched as it may sound. With his skills and mindset, the possibility of him capturing a second title in a different weight class is incredibly high.
The UFC has already seen champions, such as Daniel Cormier, Henry Cejudo, and Conor McGregor, claim dual championships, but Makhachev’s combination of skill and discipline gives him a unique edge in his pursuit of history.
The UFC lightweight division is undoubtedly one of the most competitive and stacked in MMA, but Makhachev’s dominance has set him apart. Still, he knows that to become a two-time division champion, he must prove himself against the top fighters in the UFC. If he continues to succeed in the lightweight division, there is little doubt that he will eventually make the leap to the welterweight division—a weight class brimming with opportunities.
Names such as Leon Edwards, Kamaru Usman, and Colby Covington loom in the welterweight ranks, each presenting different challenges for Makhachev. However, his ability to adapt, along with his superior wrestling and relentless pace, will make him a formidable opponent for anyone at 170 pounds. His journey will be one filled with challenges, but given his current trajectory, it’s not out of the question that Islam Makhachev will be one of the few fighters to simultaneously hold titles in two of the UFC’s most prestigious divisions.
What’s next for Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev’s ascent to the top of the lightweight division has already cemented his legacy as one of the most dominant forces in MMA today. His potential to become a two-time division champion only adds to the mystique of this fighter. With his unrivaled grappling, calm demeanor under pressure and strategic approach to every fight, Makhachev is on the verge of becoming one of the sport’s most accomplished and decorated champions.
As he continues his reign in the lightweight division, fans and pundits alike eagerly anticipate what is next for the Dagestani fighter. Will Makhachev continue his dominance and capture a second title in the welterweight division, or will his focus remain on defending his lightweight crown? One thing is for certain: Makhachev’s story is far from over, and the best may still be yet to come as he prepares to fight Tsarukyan for the second time at UFC 311.
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