UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev shared a photo on social media alongside Ramazan Kuramagomedov, accompanied by the caption "The welterweight division belongs to us." The post highlights the connection between the two Dagestani fighters. Kuramagomedov is an emerging welterweight prospect, while Makhachev is the reigning 155-pound champion. The message suggests confidence in their collective impact on the UFC's welterweight landscape. It reflects the strong training and mentorship culture within the Dagestani MMA community.
UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev took to social media on April 23 to post a photo alongside unbeaten welterweight prospect Ramazan Kuramagomedov, accompanying the image with the caption "The welterweight division belongs to us" — a bold declaration of Dagestani confidence in the 170-pound weight class.
Makhachev, 34, is the reigning lightweight champion and the number-one pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC, carrying a 28-1 record under the Eagles MMA banner out of Russia. The southpaw stands five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach and has built his dominance on elite grappling — averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes — while also posting a striking accuracy of 58 percent, well above the UFC average.
Kuramagomedov, 29, is the unbeaten welterweight making waves at American Top Team with a perfect 8-0 record. Standing six-foot-one with a 73-inch reach, the orthodox Russian is a striking force, landing an eye-catching 11.67 significant strikes per minute at 67 percent accuracy — numbers that suggest he overwhelms opponents on the feet at a remarkable rate.
Why it matters
- Makhachev's public endorsement places a spotlight on Kuramagomedov at a moment when the welterweight division is crowded with contenders
- The post reinforces the depth and reach of the Dagestani MMA network, which has produced champions and contenders across multiple divisions
- Kuramagomedov's undefeated record and elite striking output make him a name the welterweight top 15 will need to account for soon
