Makhachev: “I can say with confidence that Russia is the best country in the UFC”

MMA fighter Islam Makhachev on Match TV called Russia the best country in the UFC.

Makhachev finished 2025 in first place in the UFC rankings, regardless of weight categories. The Russian topped the P4P rankings in mid-November after defeating Australian Jack Della Maddalena in the welterweight division at UFC 322 in New York. He became the first fighter from Russia and the 11th in the history of the promotion to win two championship belts. Prior to this, the Russian vacated the title of champion of the organization in the lightweight division, which is now held by Ilia Topuria.

— Can we say that our country is now taking a leading position in the UFC?

– 100%. I won’t even say that our country is one of the best – I can say with confidence that it is the best. We now have very strong fighters, many champions. Although the UFC is not so willing to sign our guys, those who are already performing show the level of Russian MMA,” Makhachev said on the air of the “Everyone for the Match!” program. on Match TV.

34-year-old Makhachev has 28 victories and one defeat in mixed martial arts.

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