Makhachev leads updated Russian MMA top-15; retiring Makhachev enters at No. 14

Islam Makhachev has claimed the top spot in the latest monthly ranking of Russia's best active MMA fighters, a poll compiled by 32 journalists, bloggers, and experts that was released on July 1, 2026. The welterweight world champion accumulated 512 points to lead the standings, with Petr Yan second on 473 points and Khamzat Chimaev rounding out the top three.

Makhachev, 34, carries a 28-1-0 professional record and holds the welterweight championship under the Eagles MMA banner. The southpaw from Dagestan lands 2.63 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate while also averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes, underlining the well-rounded game that has kept him at the summit of both this ranking and the pound-for-pound conversation.

The poll also features a notable re-entry: Anatoly Makhachev returned at No. 14 after finishing Umar Khan by knockout in their rematch. However, the ranking panel confirmed he will not be eligible for future editions following his retirement announcement, making this his final appearance in the standings.

Why it matters

• Islam Makhachev's 512-point total gives him a comfortable cushion over Yan, reinforcing his status as the clear No. 1 Russian fighter regardless of weight class.
• Chimaev's third-place finish signals continued recognition at the elite level despite his move to welterweight.
• Anatoly Makhachev's retirement closes the door on further rankings movement for him, removing a recently resurgent contender from future consideration.
• The panel's methodology — 32 independent voices — adds credibility to the standings and reflects broad consensus rather than a single outlet's opinion.