In recent years, the UFC has witnessed a seismic shift in dominance, with fighters from Dagestan rising to the top of the sport. With their elite wrestling, relentless pressure, and unmatched discipline, Dagestani fighters have taken over multiple divisions, proving that their unique style is one of the most effective in MMA today.
The Rise of Dagestani Champions
The movement was spearheaded by Khabib Nurmagomedov, who cemented his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time. His undefeated record (29-0) and dominant reign as UFC lightweight champion showcased the effectiveness of Dagestani wrestling. Khabib’s ability to smother opponents, control them on the ground, and neutralize even the best strikers set a new standard in the sport.
Following Khabib’s retirement, his close friend and training partner Islam Makhachev took up the mantle. Under the guidance of legendary coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov and Khabib himself, Makhachev quickly ascended the ranks and claimed the UFC lightweight championship. His victories over top contenders have further solidified the Dagestani dominance at 155 pounds.
A Wrestling and Sambo Revolution
The success of Dagestani fighters is largely credited to their background in combat sambo and wrestling. Unlike traditional freestyle wrestling, sambo incorporates submissions and striking, making Dagestani fighters exceptionally well-rounded. Their ability to dictate the pace of a fight, impose relentless grappling pressure, and break their opponents mentally has made them a nightmare for any challenger.
Beyond Makhachev, fighters like Usman Nurmagomedov in Bellator, Umar Nurmagomedov, and Movsar Evloev continue to showcase the effectiveness of this fighting style. The newer generation is just as disciplined and technically refined, ensuring that the Dagestani influence in MMA is here to stay.
Who Can Stop the Takeover?
The question remains—who can stop the Dagestani dominance? While some fighters have had moments of success against Dagestani grapplers, few have been able to implement a game plan that fully neutralizes their suffocating style. High-level strikers with elite takedown defense, such as Alexander Volkanovski, have shown glimpses of resistance, but even they have struggled against the relentless pace and positional control of Dagestani fighters.
With more fighters from Dagestan emerging in various weight classes, it is clear that this wave of dominance is not a short-lived trend but a transformation in MMA. The future of the UFC will likely see even more Dagestani champions rising through the ranks, further proving that their formula for success is one of the most effective in the sport.
