Islam Makhachev has risen through the UFC rankings like a storm, which is phenomenal. Currently, Makhachev has an impressive 10-fight win streak, which makes him not only a champion but also an unstoppable force. “I think I am the best fighter in the world,” he said after topping the lightweight category. That confidence is evident in his performances, so if you are looking for fights showing that he is highly rated, this is the best place to be. Here’s the breakdown of five stunning bouts that captured Islam Makhachev’s performance that every mixed martial arts enthusiast should not miss!
Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira – UFC 280
This fight was monumental! In the co-main event, Islam Makhachev faced Charles Oliveira, the former champion famous for his grappling skills. The vacant lightweight title was at stake, and nothing could have been at higher risk. Since the bell rang, Makhachev assumed the deserved dominance. He was fluent in striking and grappling and also set the rhythm of the fight.
Makhachev was very sharp with his striking attack and managed distance well, keeping Oliveira at the end of his punches. Oliveira, a well-known lethal fighter who also surprisingly likes submission, was on the lookout for his timing. However, Makhachev had different plans for him. He put the pressure on, though Oliveira had to defend a lot of the time. The first round could have been described as a technical chess match with fireworks from both fighters, but more on the Makhachev style.
This trend continued into the second round when the fight was becoming Makhachev’s fight. After that brief conversation, he put Oliveira through a smooth trip. There can be few doubts that Makhachev is a master of the ground fight, and it emerged that he was willing to take advantage of any chance. The fight ended when Makhachev secured a rear-naked choke in the second round. Instead of considering this contest a title fight, it was more about declaring oneself. Khabib’s teammate again demonstrated dominance over an experienced fighter and said he deserves to be at the top. If you crave some real, instinctive BUSINESS, this fight is perfect.
Islam Makhachev vs. Dan Hooker – UFC 267
The next one in line is Makhachev and Dan Hooker. Hooker that possesses powerful striking and an excellent chin was supposed to provide a competitive match to Makhachev. However, Makhachev had other plans implemented in his game, specifically for the takedown and submission of his opponent. He outwrestled Hooker early throughout the bout and took the fight away from him.
The round began with fighters circling each other to find the proper distance. Still, it was not long before Makhachev took the initiative. He moved in on Hooker, wrapped him up, and brought him to the floor down. It was vintage Makhachev wrestling and grappling on full display. Even though Hooker has pretty good wrestling skills for a lightweight, he could not evade Makhachev’s pressure at all. In the first round alone, Makhachev won via submission.
Watching fighters like Makhachev constantly adapt and decoy made Hooker ineffective in this fight; what popped from this fight was how Makhachev was able to shut down Hooker’s striking. He slipped and ducked, spinning around to get out of reach for the punches and counter-punching. The way he goes about, the energy, and the technicality he plays will make you sit back and watch. This fight epitomizes how one of the fighters can dominate the other in the octagon, so much so that the latter is on the receiving end. That win was enough to add to Makhachev’s win column and further solidify his status as a top contender within the 155-pound weight class.
Islam Makhachev vs. Bobby Green – UFC 284
It is the kind of question asked when a fighter steps in on short notice. They either shine or falter. Fans were in for a treat when Bobby Green took up that challenge against Makhachev. It was time that could make or break, and again, the pressure was high.
Makhachev was amazing! Green did not answer everything he threw at him from the start of the fight, striking and grappling. That was, for sure, one of the most aggressive and adaptable fights I have ever seen. Makhachev never let Green find his comfort zone. However, he continued to pressure his opponent, Green, to make him commit errors. And that’s when the fight ended, in the first round, by submission from the side of Makhachev.
This bout demonstrates how he would take advantage of any loophole created in the shortest time possible. Makhachev’s grappling fully illustrated it as he took the fight to the floor from striking range. It was a vigorous acting Bernard Vance, which showcased his willingness to take any opportunity that could arise. Analytic supporters of MMA will find this fight interesting to watch as Makhachev sticks to his battle plan together with the desire.
Makhachev vs. Thiago Moisés – UFC Fight Night 202
Moving to the fight: Makhachev vs Thiago Moisés. This fight is the best proof that Makhachev has developed as a fighter. Of course, we knew Makhachev mainly for his submission skills, but he improved his stand-up game throughout the fight. He pursued it with great vigour and energy and managed to put Moisés on the back foot throughout the match.
The bout began with Makhachev setting phone distance, keeping Moisés at the end of his gloves and leg kicks. The match indicated that Makhachev had come well-articulated and ready for the fight. Makhachev increased his work in the clinch as the fight continued, trying to take down his opponent with his strikes. Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Moisés sought weakness, but Makhachev felt like he smothered him.
That came in the fourth round of the submission; however, getting to the round was a dramatic fight. Makhachev also did not rush; he waited for the right moment to attack. This fight helps to show just how changeable Makhachev can be in his approach and how effectively he can incorporate every aspect of MMA, making the bout one worth watching for anyone who wants to better understand how this rising star of the Octagon fights.
Makhachev vs. Drew Dober – UFC 259
Last but not least, the fight between Makhachev and Drew Dober is presented at this stage. Makhachev’s grappling was too much for Dober, who is indeed a formidable striker and challenging for anyone to deal with. The bout started with Makhachev laying down the law in the opening minutes of the match. He used a combination of strikes just to distract Dober and seek a chance to take the fight to the ground.
Makhachev was putting pressure from the first round and controlled the fight. Back and forth, he went from punching and kicking to clinching, demonstrating a diversified skill set. A worthy opponent, Dober, went to attack, but the control was too great for Makhachev. The bout ended in a third-round submission, colouring the landscape of Makhachev as a technical fighter with good strategy.
If that interests you, it’s a fight on the ground with grappling for control. Makhachev could shut down everything Dober was good at and look for weaknesses to secure his submissions. It was fun to watch Makhachev’s progress during each of these rounds, so the match will be interesting for fans of mixed martial arts.
Why These Fights Matter?
Islam Makhachev has gone through hard years in his career. He has always focused on achieving a specific goal in every bout. These five fights are not fights or games; they teach viewers what it takes to be a true champion. Every fight unfolds a part of Makhachev’s proving his capabilities in grappling, takedowns, and adaptable striking.
When you see these fights, analyze how Makhachev has developed and why he is such a dominant force in that sport. Whether you are one of MMA’s long-time followers or simply trying out these fights for the first time, these fights provide a great look into one of the modern-day top contenders that will benefit any fan.
Sit back comfortably, have your popcorn handy, and dive into Islam Makhachev’s experience. You won’t regret it! Something unique that every single fight not only gives us excitement and learning. They are a testament, and a constant will be the determination, discipline, and planning corporations needed to get there to the top of the sport of mixed martial arts.
Altogether, it is possible to state that Makhachev’s journey continues, and the further he goes, the greater fights await him. Watch him as he proceeds to carve his name in the history of MMA. It is still only the beginning, but these fights could be the start of an incredible legacy!
