Islam Makhachev was robbed during a trip to Italy, with thieves stealing his luggage. Among the stolen items were football boots belonging to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Georgian footballer who plays for Napoli. The thieves also stole Makhachev's passport, though it was later returned. The incident occurred while the UFC lightweight champion was traveling in Italy, though the exact location and circumstances of the robbery were not detailed in the post. The theft represents a security concern for high-profile athletes traveling internationally.
Islam Makhachev found himself the victim of theft during a trip to Italy, with luggage containing several personal items stolen while the UFC lightweight champion was traveling in the country. Among the stolen goods were football boots belonging to Georgian footballer Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who plays for Napoli. Makhachev's passport was also taken during the incident, though it was subsequently returned. The exact location and full circumstances of the robbery were not disclosed.
Makhachev, 34, represents Russia and trains out of Eagles MMA. The southpaw holds a professional record of 28-1-0 and is the reigning champion of the lightweight division, also sitting at the top of the pound-for-pound rankings. Known for a well-rounded game built on elite grappling, he averages 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes, while also posting a striking accuracy of 58 percent — among the highest in the division.
Why it matters
- A stolen passport creates serious logistical complications for an internationally traveling athlete, even when later recovered
- The presence of items belonging to Kvaratskhelia suggests Makhachev had recently connected with the Napoli winger during his time in Italy
- The incident raises broader questions about security arrangements for high-profile combat sports figures traveling abroad
