Islam Makhachev is among the most formidable competitors in the UFC. Active for more than ten years, the Russian powerhouse has suffered just one defeat in his professional journey and boasts a current winning streak of 13 victories. But, in which weight division does Islam Makhachev compete? Discover the answer in this article.
Originating from the same territory as UFC icon Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam has swiftly climbed the ranks within the organization. He is presently the top-ranked lightweight fighter in the UFC. Many enthusiasts draw parallels between Islam and his close friend Khabib. We’ll also explore whether Islam surpasses Khabib in any particular way.
What Weight Class is Islam Makhachev?
Active since 2010, the Dagestani athlete Islam Makhachev has consistently competed in the lightweight category (155 lbs weight class). Before joining the UFC, Makhachev fought in various promotions like M-1 Global, ProFC, Tsumada Fighting Championship, and Siberian Fighting Championship.
On October 2, 2014, Makhachev inked a four-fight deal with the UFC to join the lightweight division. For reference, the lightweight division is one of the most popular categories in the UFC and has garnered significant attention following Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement.
Note:In non-title matches, lightweight competitors can weigh up to 156 lbs, whereas title fights require them to weigh in at 155 lbs or below.
Islam Makhachev has also competed in catchweight bouts, fighting at 165 lbs against Ivica Trušček in the M-1 Challenge 51 and at 160 lbs against Bobby Green at UFC Fight Night: Makhachev vs Green. He triumphed in both contests effortlessly (the former by submission and the latter by TKO).
How much does Islam Makhachev weigh?
Reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev tips the scales at roughly 154 lbs (70 kg) and stands at 5 feet 8 inches (1.78 m). He is considered one of the bulkier fighters in the lightweight class. Recently, Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up to 170 lbs to vie for the welterweight title.
It’s important to mention that Makhachev maintains a walk-around weight of approximately 200 lbs when not focused on cutting weight or preparing for a bout, as former UFC champion Daniel Cormier revealed during their wrestling-based sparring discussions in a live feed.
“You also weigh 200. It’s not like you don’t weigh 200. We weigh the same,” Cormier remarked to Makhachev. There’s potential for UFC fans to witness Makhachev move up a division, especially given his undefeated streak of 13 victories following his triumph over Alexander Volkanovski twice.
Islam Makhachev Career Record & Titles:
Explore the career stats, records, and accolades of UFC superstar Islam Makhachev:
- Full Name: Islam Ramazanovich Makhachev
- Nickname: No nickname
- Pro MMA Career Record: 25-1-0 (Win-Loss-Draw)
- Current Streak: 13 Wins
- Title: UFC Lightweight Championship
- Age: 32 | Date of Birth: 1991.10.27
- Last Fight: October 21, 2023 in UFC (vs Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294)
- Weight Class: Lightweight | Last Weigh-In: 155.0 lbs
- Affiliation: Fightspirit Team
- Height: 5’10” (178cm) | Reach: 70.5″ (179cm)
- Career Disclosed Earnings: USD 252,000
- Born: Dagestan, Russia
- Fighting out of: Makhachkala, Russia
Who defeated Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev has suffered only one defeat in his professional MMA journey. This loss was at the hands of Brazilian fighter Adriano Martins on October 3, 2015, at UFC 192. The bout, held in Houston, Texas, concluded in just 1 minute and 46 seconds as Martins knocked out Makhachev.
It marked Makhachev’s second appearance in the UFC and his 13th professional fight overall. Entering the match, he boasted an undefeated record of 12 victories. After this embarrassing loss to the Brazilian star, Makhachev has rebounded impressively, maintaining another winning streak of 13 fights.
Is Islam Makhachev Superior to Khabib Nurmagomedov?
Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev are viewed as two of the finest lightweights ever. The dominant pair has achieved significant success in MMA, boasting impressive records, streaks, and championships. They are also excellent friends and originate from the same region, which often leads many to think they are brothers. However, they are not biologically related.
Due to their numerous similarities, comparisons between Islam and Khabib are frequent. Many speculate whether Islam Makhachev surpasses Khabib Nurmagomedov, but the consensus leans towards no. Even though Islam is potentially a more technical combatant, Khabib’s legendary undefeated record remains unparalleled.
Makhachev is often dubbed “Khabib 2.0” by coaches, teammates, and supporters, yet he has experienced defeat in his career via knockout. This is one reason why many, including Georges St-Pierre’s coach Firas Zahabi, consider Khabib superior to Makhachev.
Frequently Answered Questions:
What was Islam Makhachev’s weigh-in against Volkanovski?:
UFC lightweight titleholder Islam Makhachev weighed in at 155 lbs for his bout against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294. Volkanovski weighed in at 154.5 lbs. Makhachev emerged victorious, knocking out Volkanovski with a head kick and punch in the first round.
What was Islam’s weigh-in for UFC 284?:
In his first match against Alexander Volkanovski, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev weighed in at 155 lbs. He won the fight via unanimous decision, successfully defending his title. Their bout was dubbed the “Fight of the Night.”
Why was Islam vs. Charles canceled?:
The planned match between Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira at UFC 294 was called off because Oliveira incurred an eyebrow cut during sparring just 11 days before the event, making it impossible for him to compete. Volkanovski stepped in on short notice.
Who is better, Islam or Khabib?:
When comparing the two Dagestani fighters, Khabib Nurmagomedov surpasses Islam Makhachev. Khabib retired with an impeccable record of 29 wins, whereas Makhachev has already experienced a defeat, losing via knockout in his 13th professional match. Nonetheless, Makhachev is recognized as a superior technical fighter.