Islam Makhachev was robbed during a trip to Italy, with thieves stealing his luggage which contained soccer boots belonging to footballer Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The stolen items also included Makhachev's passport, though it was later returned. The UFC lightweight champion shared news of the incident, which appears to have occurred during what was likely a personal trip to the European country. No further details were provided about the circumstances of the theft, whether other valuable items were taken, or if the luggage itself was recovered. The incident represents an unfortunate setback during the champion's travels abroad.
UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev had his luggage stolen during a trip to Italy, with the haul including a pair of soccer boots belonging to Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Makhachev shared news of the theft publicly, revealing his passport was also among the stolen items, though it was subsequently returned. No further details about the circumstances of the incident, whether additional valuables were taken, or whether the luggage was recovered have been made available.
Makhachev, 34, holds a record of 28 wins and 1 loss and reigns as the undisputed lightweight champion. The Dagestan-born Russian trains out of Eagles MMA and carries a reputation as one of the most complete fighters in the sport, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside a striking accuracy of 58 percent. He currently holds the number-one pound-for-pound ranking.
Why it matters
- The incident is unrelated to competition but draws attention given Makhachev's status as the sport's top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter
- The presence of Kvaratskhelia's boots among the stolen items suggests a personal connection between Makhachev and the Georgian football star
- Return of his passport means no known travel disruption for the champion at this stage
