UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev had his luggage stolen during a trip to Italy, with the theft including signed boots from footballer Khvicha Kvaratskhelia among the missing items. Makhachev's passport was also taken in the robbery but was subsequently returned to him. The incident occurred while the champion was traveling in Italy, though the specific location and circumstances of the theft were not detailed. This represents a frustrating episode during what was meant to be a European visit for the Dagestani fighter.
UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev found himself the victim of theft during a recent trip to Italy, losing luggage that included personal items and a passport, though the travel document was later returned to him.
Makhachev, 34, holds a professional record of 28-1-0 and is widely regarded as one of the sport's elite competitors, currently ranked number one in the pound-for-pound standings. The Dagestani fighter, who represents Russia and trains under Eagles MMA, carries the lightweight title and has built his reputation on a suffocating grappling-based game, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes. He also lands 2.63 significant strikes per minute at a striking accuracy of 58 percent, underscoring his well-rounded threat inside the octagon.
Among the stolen items was a pair of boots signed by Georgian football star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, making the loss particularly notable beyond the practical inconvenience. While the specific location and circumstances of the robbery were not disclosed, Makhachev's passport was taken in the incident before being subsequently returned to him.
Why it matters
- The theft adds an unwanted distraction during what was intended as a European visit for the reigning champion
- The loss of a signed memento from a prominent footballer highlights the personal nature of items taken beyond standard travel documents
- Passport recovery means the disruption to Makhachev's travel plans is likely limited, though the broader circumstances of the theft remain unclear
