Rivalries: Makhmud Muradov

Creating a distinctive identity in mixed martial arts demands a special athlete, and Makhmud Muradov embodies the essence of this exceptional distinction. Shattering barriers, Muradov left an indelible mark in February 2018 when he became the first MMA fighter to be signed to Floyd Mayweather’s The Money Team.

Hailing from the tumultuous backdrop of war-torn Soviet Tajikistan shaped the resolute core of his character. Within this framework, he secured Uzbek citizenship in 2019, and Muradov’s life narrative unfolds as a stirring story woven with themes of adversity, determination and conquest, echoing the resilient spirit shaped in the crucible of war. Evolving from the Sweet Science during his adolescence to ascending as the junior Uzbek kickboxing champion under stringent K-1 regulations, Muradov’s early experiences laid the bedrock for a career in combat sports. Bound by familial duties in his early years, Muradov plunged into combat sambo at the age of 17 and quickly navigated perilous circumstances to secure a lucrative security role in Siberia. During this time, he experienced the menacing peak of danger; he was stabbed and shot multiple times, serving as proof of the struggles he withstood. He moved to the Czech Republic in 2011 and navigated various jobs, from construction worker to waiter. Under the mentorship of Petr Knize, he honed his skills in muay thai and MMA, setting the stage for a professional MMA debut in 2012.

As he gears up for his upcoming clash against Aliaskhab Khizriev at UFC Fight Night 235 this Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, it is worth exploring some of the best rivalries of his professional career:

David Ramires

Muradov and Ramires etched a compelling rivalry that lingers in memory through two impactful encounters under the Xtreme Fighting Nation banner. The first encounter took place on Dec. 18, 2016 at XFN 2, where Ramires secured victory with a technical knockout due to a clavicle injury in the second round. Their paths crossed again at XFN 11 on June 28, 2018, when Muradov recorded a swift TKO with punches in the second round, clinching the XFN middleweight championship.

Alessio Di Chirico

Stepping inside the Octagon for the first time at UFC Fight Night 160, Muradov faced Di Chirico in a thrilling middleweight bout. The fight, which went the distance, showcased Muradov’s entertaining style and ability to hang with the best in the world’s premier MMA organization. Despite a back-and-forth war, Muradov’s precise striking earned him a unanimous decision victory over his opponent.

Trevor Smith

At UFC on ESPN 7, Muradov displayed his striking prowess against Smith, culminating in a highlight-reel finish. Spending more than 10 minutes systematically targeting Smith’s body, Muradov unleashed a devastating right hand in the third round, securing a knockout victory at the 4:09 mark of the period.

Andrew Sanchez

Returning after a 13-month hiatus at UFC 257, Muradov faced Sanchez and made an emphatic statement. Despite controlling the majority of the fight, Muradov sought a finish and achieved it in the third round. A powerful overhand right followed by a flying knee and flurry of punches forced the referee to stop the contest at 2:59 of the third round.

Bryan Barberena

Muradov took on Barberena at UFC Fight Night 224 on July 22, 2023. Despite Barberena’s relentless pace and volume, Muradov showcased versatility, incorporating wrestling to control the bout. The unanimous decision victory marked the end of Muradov’s two-fight skid, reaffirming his status as a force to be reckoned with.