UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev shared a video showcasing a promising fighter who traveled from Spain to Dagestan to hone his Sambo skills.
Dagestan, a region in Russia, is famed for producing elite MMA fighters, including Makhachev and the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Despite criticisms from some rivals, Dagestan`s unique training environment is undeniable. Now, a fighter from outside Russia is seeking to learn from Dagestan`s best.
This Spanish athlete`s journey to Dagestan follows Makhachev`s previous comments about the region`s wrestling excellence. In an interview, Makhachev joked about sending Daniel Cormier`s son to Dagestan for a couple of years to become a high-level wrestler.
Makhachev posted a video on Instagram where he speaks with the fighter in Spanish, asking “Como estas, amigo?” – “How are you, friend?”.
The fighter responded that he was “tired” but well. When Makhachev asked if Barcelona was “number one,” the fighter playfully corrected him, stating “Madrid, number one.”
Makhachev then lightheartedly referenced his earlier comment, saying, “First guy who come to Dagestan, for two-three years, send him to Dagestan.”
Makhachev has also extended invitations to prominent figures like Daniel Cormier and other UFC stars to experience Dagestan, emphasizing his pride in his homeland and its fighting culture.
