Islam Ramazanovich Makhachev (born 27 October 1991) is a Russian professional mixed martial artist and former sambo competitor. He competes in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and is the current UFC Lightweight Champion.
A professional since 2010, Makhachev became combat sambo world champion in 2016 and a two-time Russian national champion at 74 kg (2014, 2016). As of 7 November 2023, he is ranked #1 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings, marking his dominance in the sport.
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Islam Makhachev Net Worth
Islam Makhachev has a net worth of $6 million. He competes in the lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). In late 2022, he became the UFC Lightweight Champion, and in 2023, he was ranked #1 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings.
Before his MMA success, Makhachev competed in sambo and became the combat sambo world champion in 2016. His rise in the UFC has made him a dominant and respected fighter globally.
Early life
An ethnic Lak, Islam Makhachev was born in Makhachkala and raised in Burshi, in the Republic of Dagestan, Russia. His father grew tomatoes and worked as a driver, while his mother ran a cafe. He has an older brother named Kurbanismail. At age seven, he began training in taekwondo under Seyfula Magomedov.
Later, he switched to sanda while attending school with Abubakar Nurmagomedov, where he met Khabib Nurmagomedov and Shamil Zavurov. After moving towns, Makhachev paused combat sports and played soccer for two years.
Career
Islam Makhachev made his M-1 Global debut on 12 February 2011, defeating Tengiz Khuchua via first-round KO. He earned unanimous decision wins over Mansour Barnaoui and Rander Junio, then submitted Yuri Ivlev with an armbar at M-1 Challenge 49.
On 7 September 2014, he beat Ivica Truscek via third-round submission. Signing with the UFC in October 2014, he submitted Leo Kuntz at UFC 187, but suffered his only professional loss to Adriano Martins at UFC 192. USADA later cleared him after a meldonium suspension.
Personal life
As of January 2025, Islam Makhachev is married with three children—his eldest is a daughter, followed by two sons. In February 2014, he won the -74 kg division at the Russian National Combat Sambo Championship, qualifying for the world championship in Japan, but missed it due to a heart condition.
In 2016, he again won the national title and captured gold at the World Combat Sambo Championship, defeating Valentin Benishev of Bulgaria with a score of 7–0 in the finals.
How is Khabib related to Makhachev?
Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev are not biological brothers, but share a deep bond from their upbringing in Dagestan, Russia. They trained together under Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib’s father, a legendary coach in mixed martial arts.
Their connection grew through years of intense training, mutual respect, and discipline. Khabib has served as a mentor, coach, and close friend to Makhachev throughout his MMA career, making their relationship more like family despite no blood relation. Their brotherhood is forged through loyalty and shared purpose.
Conclusion
Islam Makhachev’s journey in the UFC has not only made him one of the prominent figures in the sport but also resulted in substantial financial success. With a net worth exceeding $4.5 million, Makhachev stands as a prime example of how athletic prowess can lead to financial prosperity in the world of mixed martial arts.
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FAQs about Islam Makhachev Net Worth
- What notable victories has Islam Makhachev achieved in the UFC?
- Makhachev has secured significant wins against fighters like Thiago Moises and Dan Hooker, showcasing his dominance in the lightweight division.
- What is the source of Islam Makhachev’s net worth?
- His net worth primarily comes from his UFC career earnings and endorsements.
- Has Islam Makhachev received any awards or recognitions in the UFC?
- He has earned two Fight of the Night bonuses, highlighting his exciting fighting style.
- What endorsements does Islam Makhachev have?
- He has endorsement deals with companies like Wahed Invest and Gorilla Energy Drink.
- What impact has Islam Makhachev had on the sport of MMA?
- Makhachev has been recognized for his grappling skills and is considered one of the top contenders in the UFC lightweight division, contributing to the sport’s growth and popularity.
