Islam Makhachev Sends Suggestive Invite to IShowSpeed’s Brother After Major Fitness Test Failure
Islam Makhachev posted an ambiguous emoji when IShowSpeed wanted to send his brother to Dagestan after getting out of shape.
IShowSpeed wants to send his brother to train under Islam Makhachev in Dagestan (Image via Instagram)
- IShowSpeed suggested sending his brother Jamal to Dagestan for training with Islam Makhachev.
- Jamal expressed fear about going to Dagestan and rejected the idea.
- Islam Makhachev has yet to defend his welterweight title due to injuries and a lack of clear challengers.
Social media influencers, in recent times, have started collaborating with UFC fighters. Not too long ago, lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan collaborated with popular streamers N3on, Adin Ross and IShowSpeed This time, the focus of Speed’s attention was UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev and his famous phrase.
“Send him 2-3 years to Dagestan and forget,” is the most famous one-liner uttered by Makhachev. It has gotten so famous that even personalities from other fields use them. This is what led IShowSpeed to recommend Dagestan to his younger brother, Jamal (also known as Dian Watkins), after he failed to do pushups.
Speed spoke highly of Islam Makhachev, and called him a legend. He wanted to send his brother there as well. However, Jamal didn’t like the idea and pushed back by saying that he was scared. While the brothers were going back-and-forth, Speed sent a DM to the Dagestani superstar. The social media influencer wanted his brother to get in-shape, and felt the best way was to send him to Dagestan.
IShowSpeed DM’d Islam Makhachev asking if he could send his brother to Dagestan for 2–3 years 💀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 29, 2026
🗣️ Speed: "This is a legend. You spending 2-3 years with him bro."
🗣️ Jamal: "I'm not going to Dagestan. No I'm NOT!" 😭pic.twitter.com/KseM35hrki
The welterweight champion wrote an emoji in the comment section as well. Makhachev once used the same catchphrase to UFC legend Daniel Cormier, and years later, DC sent his students to Dagestan. Fans always use this phrase whenever someone get outwrestled in the UFC.
Even superstar boxers have used the catchphrase as well. Most recently, Ryan Garcia and Anthony Joshua mentioned about a trip to Dagestan. Joshua tried to hilariously negotiate with Makhachev about the length of the stay. Makhachev praised ‘AJ’ for his boxing skills and believed that grappling skills could make the UK star a better fighter.
Meanwhile, Garcia took a unique approach. He posted a reel hinting at “2-3 years in Dagestan,” and called himself “Ryan Makhachev” after adding some beard on his face through some filters. Due to the strong work ethic and training in Dagestan, it has become a destination several fighters want to go and experience for themselves.
In the case of IShowSpeed and his brother, it remains to be seen if Jamal will go to Dagestan. Speed met Khabib Nurmagomedov last year, and that meeting could result in Jamal getting sent to Dagestan in the future. Moreover, Makhachev did respond, and it remains to be seen if any collaboration happens.
Jon Anik reveals most deserving contender to face Islam Makhachev next
Islam Makhachev has yet to defend his welterweight title after becoming the champion at UFC 322. Hand injuries and Ramadan have prevented him from returning in the first half of 2026. Meanwhile, another reason for the delay could be the lack of a clear challenger. Ian Garry, Michael Morales, and Kamaru Usman were rumored as the potential challenger for sometime now.

Islam Makhachev was in consideration to face Ilia Topuria at the White House event. However, the UFC booked Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje as the headliner instead. This leaves Makhachev to fight sometime after June.
Fans have continuously argued for next generation fighters like Garry or Morales to face Makhachev. Meanwhile, his team wants to secure a superfight against Kamaru Usman. Now, UFC commentator Jon Anik came out and picked his choice to face the welterweight champion next.
I think straight meritocracy based on the body of work, despite Morales’ undefeated record and the wildly sensational win over Sean Brady. I just feel like Makhachev vs Ian Garry is the fight. I think Ian Garry is going to be the guy, and he’s the most deserving
Jon Anik via Submission Radio
Jon Anik says Ian Garry seems to be the guy next to challenge Islam Makhachev for the welterweight title 🥊🔥
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 28, 2026
"I think straight meritocracy based on the body of work, despite Morales' undefeated record and the wildly sensational win over Sean Brady. I just feel like Makhachev vs… pic.twitter.com/csOyiV9zs0
Garry facing Makhachev could result in a sequel of Ireland vs. Dagestan after Conor McGregor previously faced Nurmagomedov. It could do huge business for the UFC if they capitalize on that rivalry. However, at the moment, the promotion has plans for Makhachev to fight in the second half of the year, but they have not yet indicated who the opponent will be.
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