Islam Makhachev has a theory that explains the great advantage Russians have inside the Octagon.
The Dagestani, current UFC welterweight champion and former lightweight champion, was honest when speaking about the difference between athletes from his country and those of other nationalities.
The protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov pointed out that this advantage is developed from the very beginning of athletic training.
In an interview with Arena Fight TV, Makhachev explained that sambo, the Russian martial art, is the key difference among athletes from the region.
The grappling expert stated that the discipline is based on pure technique, unlike luta livre, which according to his argument, helps more with developing endurance and physical strength.
“Luta livre makes you resilient, it makes you strong, but sambo is pure technique. A single point can change everything. And that’s why I have extensive amateur experience in sambo,” Islam explained.
Islam Makhachev currently does not have a fight scheduled. In his most recent bout, he defeated Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, capturing the UFC welterweight title.
Names like Ilia Topuria and Michael Morales are already being mentioned as possible opponents for the Russian. Morales has already expressed interest in fighting for the belt.
Likewise, Ilia Topuria gave the green light to face the welterweight champion on the UFC White House card.
