Islam Makhachev is one of the most dominant fighters in UFC history, a Russian mixed martial artist known for suffocating grappling, relentless pressure, and a long championship reign at lightweight before moving up to win a title at welterweight. His control-based style has made him one of the hardest puzzles in the sport to solve.
| Full Name | Islam Ramazanovich Makhachev |
| Known For | UFC welterweight champion and former lightweight champion |
| Date of Birth | October 27, 1991 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 35 |
| Birthplace | Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) |
| Team | UFC |
| Position | Welterweight mixed martial artist |
| Partner | Not publicly confirmed |
Who Is Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev is a Russian professional mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC welterweight division. He is best known for his dominant wrestling and sambo-based grappling, combined with improved striking, and for a championship run that placed him among the greatest lightweights of all time. In 2025 he moved up a division and won the welterweight title, adding a second UFC championship to his career.
Early Life & Background
Makhachev was born in Makhachkala, Dagestan, on October 27, 1991, and grew up in the village of Burshi. He began training in combat sports as a child, competing in sambo and wrestling before turning to mixed martial arts. He trained alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov, who later became his coach, and built an extensive amateur and professional record before joining the UFC in 2015.
Career
Makhachev joined the UFC in 2015 and steadily climbed the lightweight rankings with a run of dominant wins. In October 2022 he defeated Charles Oliveira to win the UFC lightweight championship, and he defended the title against Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano. In 2025 he vacated the lightweight title to move to welterweight, and in November 2025 he defeated Jack Della Maddalena to win the UFC welterweight championship.
Facts About Islam Makhachev
- He won the UFC lightweight title against Charles Oliveira in 2022.
- He defended the lightweight title against Alexander Volkanovski and Dustin Poirier.
- He vacated the lightweight title in 2025 to move up to welterweight.
- He won the UFC welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena in November 2025.
- He is a former world sambo champion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev is 35 years old as of 2026. He was born on October 27, 1991.
How tall is Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev is 5 feet 10 inches tall.
What team does Islam Makhachev fight for?
Islam Makhachev fights in the UFC.
What division does Islam Makhachev fight in?
Islam Makhachev fights in the UFC welterweight division.
Who is Islam Makhachev’s partner?
Islam Makhachev has not publicly confirmed a partner.
Related profiles: Ilia Topuria.