Islam Makhachev, the current UFC lightweight champion, originates from Brushi, a village in Dagestan, Russia, and was born on October 27, 1991. His combat sports career began with an early win at the World Sambo Championship, highlighting his natural talent in this discipline. Makhachev transitioned to professional MMA in 2010, amassing an impressive 12-fight winning streak before his only loss to Adriano Martins at UFC 192.
With a record of 26 wins, 1 loss, and 0 draws (26-1-0), Makhachev is ranked as the #1 pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC. His latest win took place at UFC 302, where he defended his lightweight title in a much-anticipated fight against Dustin Poirier. The event took place on June 1, 2024, in Newark, New Jersey, United States. Makhachev is set to face Renato Moicano next at UFC 311 on January 18, 2025. This bout will be held at the Intuit Arena in Inglewood, California.
Islam Makhachev Ban
Islam Makhchev has never been banned by the UFC. However, the reigning lightweight champion has been involved in several controversies. In 2016, the Dagestani native tested positive for meldonium, a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) due to its potential use for performance enhancement. This led to his removal from a scheduled bout against Drew Dober at UFC on FOX 19 and a provisional suspension by the UFC's Anti-Doping Policy.
Meldonium had been added to the WADA prohibited list on January 1, 2016, shortly before Makhachev's positive test. However, USADA, the independent administrator of the UFC's Anti-Doping Policy, later concluded that the low concentration of meldonium in Makhachev's sample indicated ingestion before the ban took effect. As a result, his suspension was lifted, and he faced no further penalties.
Another controversy took place after his victory over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284 as Makhachev was accused by UFC lightweight Dan Hooker of using an illegal IV for rehydration, a claim that Makhachev denied, stating that UFC and USADA had no evidence against him.
Also Read: How many belts does Islam Makhachev have?
FAQs On Islam Makhachev UFC ban
A. No, Islam Makhachev was not banned by the UFC.
A. In 2016, Islam Makhachev tested positive for Meldonium, a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency for its performance-enhancing benefits.
A. Dan Hooker accused Islam Makhahcev for the use of an illegal IV rehydration.
A. Despite his impressive physique, Islam Makhachev is not on steroids as he would not be able to compete if he tested positive.
A. Islam Makhachev’s next opponent is Renato Moicano on January 18, 2025.
