Islam Makhachev was robbed while traveling in Italy, with thieves stealing his luggage that contained boots belonging to footballer Khvicha Kvaratskhelia among other items. The thieves also took Makhachev's passport, though it was later returned to him. The incident occurred during what appears to have been a personal trip to Italy for the UFC lightweight champion. Details about the circumstances of the theft or whether any other items were recovered remain limited in the initial report. The theft of the Kvaratskhelia boots is particularly notable given the Georgian footballer's prominence and the likely sentimental or collectible value of the footwear.
Islam Makhachev found himself the victim of theft during a personal trip to Italy, with luggage containing several items stolen — including a pair of boots belonging to Georgian football star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The UFC lightweight champion's passport was also taken in the incident, though it was subsequently returned to him. Further details surrounding the circumstances of the theft, and whether any additional items were recovered, remain limited.
Makhachev, 34, is currently the reigning UFC lightweight champion and holds the number-one spot in the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian fighter, who trains out of Eagles MMA, carries a professional record of 28 wins and one loss. Standing five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach, he is regarded as one of the most well-rounded competitors in the sport, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside a striking accuracy of 58 percent.
The stolen boots connected to Kvaratskhelia add an unusual dimension to the story. The Georgian winger has risen to global prominence in club football, and the footwear would carry considerable sentimental or collectible value regardless of how it came into Makhachev's possession. The summary does not detail whether the boots or any other items beyond the passport were ultimately recovered.
Why it matters
- Makhachev is one of the most high-profile athletes in combat sports, making any incident involving him newsworthy beyond the MMA community
- The recovery of his passport suggests at least partial resolution, though the fate of the remaining stolen property is unclear
- The Kvaratskhelia connection draws attention from both the football and MMA worlds, reflecting Makhachev's broad sporting relationships
