Islam Makhachev part of Mount Rushmore in MMA as Demetrious Johnson heaps huge praise

UFC legend Demetrious Johnson puts the pound-for-pound number one Islam Makhachev in his Mount Rushmore of MMA.

Islam Makhachev part of Mount Rushmore in MMA as Demetrious Johnson heaps huge praise

Demetrious Johnson believes Islam Makhachev is already in the Mount Rushmore of MMA (via Imago)

Islam Makhachev has dominated the lightweight division, proving his superiority with elite grappling, striking, and relentless pressure in every fight. His achievements surpass former champions, cementing his legacy as the greatest lightweight in UFC history with multiple title defenses. Even Demetrious Johnson acknowledges Makhachev’s legendary status, placing him higher on the GOAT list in mixed martial arts history.

Makhachev has defended his lightweight title four times, delivering dominant performances that showcased his elite mindset. Now, he is motivated to move up and challenge for welterweight gold before retiring, aiming to solidify his legacy. Demetrious Johnson recently included Makhachev in his Mount Rushmore of MMA, explaining why he considers him among the greatest ever.

I already feel like he’s already there. He’s done a lot in the lightweight division. Even if he doesn’t go to 170 and stays at 155, and he beats Arman Tsarukyan and beats up Ilia Topuria, I don’t think there’s anything left for him to do in that 155lbs division. 

Demetrious Johnson via The Submission Radio 
YouTube video

Johnson mentioned that former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was on his list, but with time, Makhachev has taken the spot. According to DJ, Nurmagomedov didn’t move up and retired very early, which has taken a hit on his overall career. If Makhachev moves up and becomes the fifth-ever simultaneous double champion, it will put him on the list. 

Makhachev evolving striking skills have made him nearly invincible, overwhelming opponents with precision, power, and relentless pressure inside the octagon. Additionally, his submission game is unmatched, recently finishing Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano with his deadly, perfectly executed D’arce choke.

Former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria is eager to challenge Makhachev, aiming to dethrone him and end the dominant Dagestani era. However, Makhachev has already dismissed Topuria’s challenge once, leading to criticism and debates about the champion’s willingness to fight. Many believe Topuria should first defeat a top contender before earning his rightful shot at the lightweight championship belt.

Islam Makhachev’s immense respect for Demetrious Johnson 

Demetrious Johnson is one of the greatest MMA fighters ever, known for his speed, technique, and unmatched fight IQ across divisions. As the longest-reigning UFC flyweight champion, he defended his title 11 times, showcasing elite grappling, striking, and creativity. His legendary suplex-to-armbar finish remains iconic in MMA history.

Islam Makhachev and Demetrious Johnson training together
Islam Makhachev and Demetrious Johnson training together (via Instagram)

After dominating the UFC, he conquered ONE Championship, further cementing his legacy. Johnson’s longevity, skillset, and dominance make him one of the most complete and respected fighters of all time. It was visible when Islam Makhachev went to do an interview with DJ. During the conversation, Makhachev showed immense respect to DJ and asked him to visit Dagestan. 

One of my best fighters, it’s you, because I always watched your fights, and when you come to the gym, everybody loves you, and they are all big fans. That’s why I want to invite you to my country in Russia in Dagestan. You are a very big star there, because all the kids are watching MMA. You can come with your family and bring everybody

Islam Makhachev via Demetrious Johnson’s YouTube channel 
YouTube video

Before UFC 311 fight camp, Demetrious Johnson trained with Khabib Nurmagomedov and the Dagestani team to understand their mentality. Both legends shared mutual respect, discussing training philosophies and strategies for dominance. This experience enriched Johnson’s techniques, highlighting his dedication to improvement and the strong camaraderie even after retirement. 

Other members in Demetrious Johnson’s MMA Mount Rushmore 

Demetrious Johnson’s rest of Mount Rushmore includes himself, Jon Jones, and Georges St-Pierre. Jones and Georges St-Pierre rightfully belong on Johnson’s Mount Rushmore of MMA due to their dominance, longevity, and versatility. Jones, the longest-reigning light heavyweight champion, showcased unmatched striking, wrestling, and adaptability, defeating generations of elite fighters. 

Demetrious Johnson's Mount Rushmore
Demetrious Johnson’s Mount Rushmore (via X)

GSP is a two-division champion, dominating the welterweight division with precise striking, elite wrestling, and strategic brilliance. Alongside Johnson, who revolutionized flyweight with speed and technique, they represent the pinnacle of MMA greatness, each redefining excellence in their respective divisions.

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