Islam Makhachev explains Russian superiority in MMA; understand why.

Islam makhachev comes from victory against Renato Moicano No. UFC 311. Photo: Instagram/UFC Espanol

Islam makhachev He has a theory that explains the superiority of Russians in the UFC. The Dagestani fighter, current welterweight champion (up to 77 kg) and former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, was candid when commenting on the difference between fighters from his country and athletes of other nationalities. A protégé of Khabib NurmagomedovThe athlete pointed out that this advantage begins right from the start of sports training.

In an interview with 'Arena Fight TV', Islam makhachev He explained that sambo, a popular martial art in Russia, is the great differentiating factor for competitors from the region. A specialist in grappling, the champion stated that the modality is based on 'pure technique', unlike wrestling, which, in his view, contributes more to the development of endurance and physical strength.

“Wrestling makes you resilient, makes you strong, but sambo is pure technique. A single point can change everything. That’s why I have extensive amateur experience in sambo,” said Makhachev.

🧠🤼‍♂️Islam makhachev explains why sambo is the best base for MMA:

“Wrestling makes you tough, it makes you strong but sambo is all about technique.

Just one point can change everything there. That's why I have huge amateur experience in sambo.”👏

(via YT / Arena Fight TV) pic.twitter.com/NF2RlJjqrM

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) February 16, 2026

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When is Islam Makhachev's next UFC fight?

Islam makhachev He does not yet have a fight scheduled for the 2026 season. The Russian had his last fight against Jack Della Maddalena No. UFC 322, in November 2025, in New York (USA). The duel was for the welterweight belt of Dana White's organization.

Names like Ilia Topuria e MichaelMorales They have already been linked to a possible duel against the Russian. Undefeated in all 19 of his career fights, Morales has already expressed interest in competing for the belt. Similarly, Topuria has been given the green light to face the welterweight champion at UFC Casa Branca., scheduled for June.