Islam Makhachev is the current UFC lightweight champion and is set to compete in the upcoming PPV event (UFC 311). Due to his status as one of the top MMA fighters in the world, Makhachev must always maintain peak physical condition. As a result, fighters like him often miss out on enjoyable moments and quality time with their families.
UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, a representative from Dagestan, is a father of three children: his eldest is a daughter, followed by two sons. Notably, his youngest child was born just a few weeks ago. In a recent interview with UFC legend Demetrious Johnson, Makhachev discussed various topics, including how he had to leave his 10-day-old baby to begin training for his upcoming fight.
I have kids like they’re all small you know… I still sleep with my kids always because I miss them, because I travel a lot you know. But my opinion when you’re in camp you have to focus and sleep well, it’s most important think… The last one (kid), ten days (old)… I just he born after like next day I leave for US.
Islam Makhachev via “MIGHTY” Podcast (@Mighty15x)
Islam Makhachev will face Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311 on January 18th at the Intuit Dome in California. This upcoming fight is expected to be one of the toughest challenges of Makhachev’s championship reign. The Dagestani fighter claimed the title by dethroning Charles Oliveira, following in the footsteps of another legendary Dagestani, Khabib Nurmagomedov, who previously dominated the division.
Currently, Nurmagomedov is one of the top coaches closely monitoring Makhachev’s development in the world of MMA. ‘The Eagle’ intentionally puts the UFC lightweight champion through rigorous training regimes to prepare for his upcoming fight against Tsarukyan. As a result, Makhachev has had to leave his family and join the training camp alongside his teammates, including Umar Nurmagomedov.
Islam Makhachev extends an invitation to Demetrious Johnson and his family to visit Dagestan
Despite his serious demeanor as an MMA fighter, Islam Makhachev is known for his cheerful personality. Over the years, the UFC community has enjoyed watching him engage in humorous conversations with various prominent figures. One memorable moment was when Makhachev asked former UFC champion Daniel Cormier to bring his children to Dagestan.
Demetrious Johnson with his family (Image via Instagram/@mighty)Makhachev’s suggestion took aback Cormier and even declined the offer. Similarly, the UFC lightweight champion also expressed his desire to host UFC legend Demetrious Johnson and his family in Dagestan. Interestingly, like Cormier, Johnson was also hesitant to bring his children to Dagestan. In response, the UFC lightweight champion emphasized how a visit to Dagestan could affect Johnson’s kids.
No no no bring your kids also… Yes, because they want to see to the big champion, how these kids in Dagestan working..
Islam Makhachev via “MIGHTY” Podcast (@Mighty15x)
Islam Makhachev tries to convince Demetrious Johnson to bring his family to Dagestan 😂
DJ: “If I come it’ll be just me and my wife. I’ll leave my kids at home.”
Islam: “No, no, no, bring your kids also.” 😭😭
🎥 @MightyMouse #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/PzZVXCjSej
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 7, 2025
Makhachev shares a strong camaraderie with Johnson. The UFC legend was even spotted during the Dagestani fighter’s pre-fight camp for his upcoming match against Tsaruykan. Makhachev invited Johnson and his family to visit Dagestan because he wanted the UFC legend to witness the dedication and hard work of the rising MMA fighters in that region.
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