Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev is the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world, and the gap between him and everyone else is not merely visible — it is a chasm. Born on October 27, 1991, in Makhachkala, Dagestan, the protege of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov has established himself as the most dominant fighter in mixed martial arts: 28-1 professional record, a UFC record-tying 16-fight winning streak, and championships in two weight classes. The question is no longer whether Makhachev is the best. The question is whether anyone can make a fight against him competitive.

Makhachev’s coronation as a two-division champion came at UFC 322 in November 2025, where he defeated Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision to claim the welterweight title — the eleventh double champion in UFC history and a victory that tied Anderson Silva’s mark for the longest winning streak in promotional history. His grappling is world-class, his striking is increasingly dangerous, and his ability to impose his will on opponents regardless of their strengths makes him the most tactically complete fighter in the sport.

For Australian fans, the welterweight title victory over Della Maddalena was a bittersweet pill — watching an Australian fighter fall short against the best in the world is painful, but watching the best in the world confirms exactly how good the best really is. Makhachev’s expected first welterweight defence in mid-2026 will be one of the most anticipated events of the year, and any challenger will need a plan, a prayer, and probably a miracle.

Fight Record

Fighter Profile

Islam Makhachev competes in the Welterweight division with 16 wins from 17 UFC appearances and the distinction of being the most dominant fighter in mixed martial arts. The Dagestani champion holds belts in two weight classes and the number one pound-for-pound ranking, and his grappling mastery makes every opponent look like they are solving an equation they were never taught. The gold standard. The final boss. The best there is.

VS — Chief sports columnist, australiafootball.com