Islam Makhachev reveals behind-the-scenes details and gives golden tips on how to become a UFC star.

Islam Makhachev is a former UFC lightweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India

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Islam Makhachev revealed the key to success. The Russian, former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) and current welterweight champion (up to 77 kg) in the UFC, gave a candid interview where he explained the best way to succeed in Dana White's organization. According to Khabib's protégé, certain tools are essential for a long career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

In an interview with 'Ushatayka', Makhachev said that the UFC is no longer interested in uninteresting Dagestani fighters and that the organization wants more "street fighters". The welterweight champion explained that, in addition to speaking English, the athlete needs to know how to sell the fight.

"I tell the guys: you have to go out there and fight. Those fighters from Dagestan who just show up, dominate everyone, don't speak English, don't sell the fight, don't create any expectation, I think that type of fighter is no longer interesting for the UFC."

What they want is basically a street fight vibe, someone who just comes in and goes for it. Some guys lose 6 or 7 fights, but they keep getting more because they go in there and fight with grit every time, win or lose.

"I'm not going to name names, but one of the UFC executives told me they have guys like that," said Khabib Nurmagomedov 's protégé via Ushatayka.

🚨 Islam Makhachev says that the UFC aren't interested in uninteresting Dagestani fighters anymore and want “street fighters” 🤔

“I already tell the guys, you've got to go out there and scrap.

Those Dagestani fighters that just show up, dominate everyone, don't speak English,… pic.twitter.com/23JKR4A3fF

— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) February 19, 2026

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Current situation of Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev is the current Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) welterweight champion. The Russian last fought Jack Della Maddalena for the title at UFC 322 in November 2025. Khabib's protégé won by unanimous decision. Frequently linked to the prestigious event at the White House, the grappling specialist does not yet have a fight scheduled with the organization.

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