Russia has established itself as a formidable force in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), particularly within the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Russian fighters are renowned for their exceptional skills, discipline, and diverse martial arts backgrounds.
They have made significant contributions to the sport and have gained recognition for their prowess in the octagon. Here’s a comprehensive overview of Russian UFC fighters and their impact on the sport. Check out the Top 10 Russian UFC Fighters of All Time.
Oleg Taktarov(17-5-2,2KO)
Oleg Taktarov is a Russian actor and retired mixed martial artist. He was a practitioner of Sambo and Judo and competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and Pride Fighting Championships.
Oleg Taktarov’s UFC debut on July 12, 1996, at UFC 6, facing Dave Beneteau in a heavyweight bout. Taktarov wasted no time in showcasing his grappling prowess, securing a victory via rear-naked choke submission in the first round. This debut win introduced Taktarov to the UFC audience and set the stage for his rise in the early days of the promotion.
Askar Askarov(15-1-1,4KO)
Askar Askarov is a Russian professional mixed martial artist and freestyle wrestler who competes in the Flyweight division of the Absolute Championship Akhmat.
Askar Askarov’s UFC debut on September 21, 2019, at UFC Fight Night 159 against Brandon Moreno. The fight ended in a split draw, with both fighters showcasing their skills in a closely contested bout. Despite the draw, Askarov’s performance earned him recognition for his grappling ability and tenacity inside the octagon. UFC debut against Brandon Moreno, Askar Askarov displayed his grappling prowess and strategic approach to fighting.
Islam Makhachev(26-1,5KO)
Islam Makhachev is a Russian professional mixed martial artist and former sambo competitor. He currently competes in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, where he is the current UFC Lightweight Champion.
Islam Makhachev made his UFC debut on May 23, 2015, at UFC 187 against Leo Kuntz. He showcased his grappling prowess, securing a victory via submission with a rear-naked choke in the second round. This win highlighted his potential in the lightweight division and marked the beginning of his rise within the UFC. Islam Makhachev captured the UFC Lightweight Championship on October 22, 2022, at UFC 280.
Zabit Magomedsharipov(18-1,6KO)
Zabit Magomedsharipov is a Russian former professional mixed martial artist. He fought in the Featherweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Zabit made his UFC debut on September 2, 2017, at UFC Fight Night 115 against Mike Santiago. Displaying his well-rounded skill set, Zabit dominated the fight with his striking and grappling, ultimately securing a victory via submission with a rear-naked choke in the second round. His impressive debut showcased his potential as a future contender in the featherweight division. Zabit Magomedsharipov is known for his unorthodox and versatile fighting style, blending elements of striking.
Khamzat Chimaev(13-0,6KO)
Khamzat Chimaev is a Russian professional mixed martial artist and freestyle wrestler who competes in the Middleweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. In freestyle wrestling, Chimaev is a three-time Swedish national champion. Chimaev is #11 in the UFC middleweight rankings.
Khamzat Chimaev made a sensational UFC debut on July 16, 2020, against John Phillips at UFC on ESPN 13. Chimaev dominated Phillips with his grappling and secured a submission victory via D’Arce choke in the second round. This performance earned him widespread recognition and set the tone for his future fights.
Petr Yan(17-5,7KO)
Petr Yan is a Russian professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Bantamweight division in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, where he is a former UFC Bantamweight Champion.
Petr Yan made his highly anticipated UFC debut on June 23, 2018, at UFC Fight Night 132, held in Singapore. His opponent was the Japanese fighter Teruto Ishihara. Yan’s entry into the UFC came with much excitement due to his impressive performances in other promotions, and he did not disappoint in his first appearance inside the octagon. In his debut fight against Teruto Ishihara, Petr Yan showcased his striking prowess and aggressive style from the outset.
Khabib Nurmagomedov (29-0,8KO)
Khabib Nurmagomedov is a Russian former professional mixed martial artist who competed in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He was the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion ever, having held the title from April 2018 to March 2021.
Khabib Nurmagomedov made his UFC debut on January 20, 2012, at UFC on FX 1 against Kamal Shalorus. Khabib showcased his exceptional grappling skills, dominating Shalorus throughout the fight. He eventually secured a victory via submission with a rear-naked choke in the third round. This impressive debut marked the beginning of Khabib’s rise in the lightweight division.
Magomed Ankalaev(18-1-1,10KO)
Magomed Ankalaev is a Russian professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Light Heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship and on #2 in the UFC light heavyweight rankings.
Magomed Ankalaev made his UFC debut on March 17, 2018, at UFC Fight Night 127 against Paul Craig. Ankalaev, a highly touted prospect from Dagestan, Russia, came into the UFC with an undefeated record and a reputation for his striking and grappling skills. In his debut fight, Ankalaev showcased his striking and control throughout most of the bout. He dominated the fight with his superior stand-up skills and effective ground-and-pound.
Fedor Emelianenko(40-7-1,16KO)
Fedor Vladimirovich Emelianenko is a Russian former professional mixed martial artist, sambist, judoka, and politician. Fedor Emelianenko, widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, began his professional career in 2000. He first gained international fame competing in the Pride Fighting Championships, a premier MMA organization based in Japan.
During his tenure in Pride, Fedor built an impressive undefeated streak, showcasing his exceptional skills in striking, sambo, and ground-and-pound. Fedor announced his retirement multiple times but continued to return for special bouts, maintaining his status as a revered figure in MMA.
Alexander Volkov (38-10,24KO)
Alexander Yevgenyevich Volkov is a Russian professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Alexander Volkov made his UFC debut on November 19, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 99. He faced Timothy Johnson in a closely contested bout that showcased Volkov’s striking skills and ability to control distance. Despite the competitive nature of the fight, Volkov emerged victorious with a split decision win, marking a successful start to his UFC career. In his debut fight against Timothy Johnson, Alexander Volkov displayed his trademark striking prowess and measured approach. Also, check out the list of top 10 best Canadian ufc fighters.
