“LeBron Been Real Quiet” – Islam Makhachev’s Expertise in Dagestani Basketball Game Sparks Hilarious Reactions

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev showcases exceptional skill while playing a hybrid of basketball and wrestling in Dagestan.

“LeBron Been Real Quiet” – Islam Makhachev’s Expertise in Dagestani Basketball Game Sparks Hilarious Reactions

Islam Makhachev plays Wrestleball in Dagestan (via Instagram, X)

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Islam Makhachev is a leading figure in combat sports with championships in both lightweight and welterweight divisions. He defeated Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 to win the welterweight belt. This victory tied him with Anderson Silva for the longest UFC win streak at 16 consecutive fights. Beyond MMA, he was recently seen excelling in Wrestleball, which is a hybrid of basketball and wrestling.

Makhachev began training in Dagestan under the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, known for his disciplined and intense coaching methods. However, after his passing, UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov took over Makhachev’s preparation. Training routines now include high-intensity sports like football and basketball alongside MMA techniques to build overall athletic performance.

Wrestleball merges basketball scoring with wrestling takedowns, requiring coordination and strategy. Makhachev represented the Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov MMA School Team against the Tarki Tau Team in a recent tournament. He scored baskets while taking down opponents, maintaining a consistent court presence. His performance demonstrated both skill and adaptability in a hybrid sporting environment.

In Khabib Nurmagomedov’s training camps, Makhachev often plays basketball and Wrestleball with fellow fighters like Umar Nurmagomedov. These sessions enhance agility, footwork, and coordination. Makhachev is also competent in standard basketball, making him effective in both conventional and hybrid formats. Such cross-training complements his MMA preparation and keeps his skills versatile.

Outside the Octagon, Makhachev leads an active lifestyle in Dagestan. He owns a farm with animals and engages in outdoor activities, maintaining fitness through daily routines. He occasionally rides horses and plays various recreational sports. These pursuits help preserve his conditioning, mental focus, and physical readiness while providing balance beyond competitive fighting.

Even after winning the welterweight title, Makhachev continues to focus on both his career and athletic development. Younger contenders like Ian Garry and Michael Morales represent strong future challenges in the division. Staying active off-screen with MMA drills and other sports helps him maintain agility. This ongoing preparation ensures he remains ready for title defenses and the rising generation of fighters.

Fans react to Islam Makhachev playing wrestleball

Fans have humorously compared Islam Makhachev to basketball legends such as LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. These comparisons are made in a lighthearted way, highlighting his performance in Wrestleball rather than serious claims. Many posts and comments emphasized the fun side of seeing a UFC champion show skills on a basketball-style court.

Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev (via Yahoo Sports)

Many viewers were amused watching footage of Wrestleball, a sport native to Dagestan. Fans appreciated seeing Islam Makhachev dominate in a setting outside the Octagon. His ability to score baskets while executing wrestling moves impressed audiences. Comments often highlighted that his athleticism translates well across different sports.

Numerous fans expressed admiration for Islam Makhachev’s athletic versatility. Observers recognized not only his basketball skills in Wrestleball but also his football abilities demonstrated in training camps. The combination of strength, coordination, and agility reinforced his status as a multi-sport athlete. Many noted that his physical conditioning clearly benefits his MMA career.

Overall, fans celebrated Islam Makhachev’s outside the octagon activities as entertaining and impressive. Some also remarked on his discipline and dedication, drawing parallels to his fighting focus. Social media responses reflected a mix of humor and respect for his athletic achievements. Collectively, these reactions reinforced his reputation as both a dominant fighter and a versatile athlete.

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