Fighters are dedicated and disciplined people, and they are often only focused on their next bout. But sometimes, global events pull them out of the ring and into wider conversations. Islam Makhachev recently found himself in such a situation. Known for his grappling prowess and calm demeanor, the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion surprised many with his impassioned response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The Dagestan-born fighter has always been a man of few words. His actions in the octagon speak volumes, though. With an impressive record and a recent title defense, Makhachev’s star continues to rise in the UFC. But on this day, it wasn’t his fighting skills making headlines. It was his heart.
“I swear to the Almighty, there will be judgement and you will answer for everything with hate,” wrote Makhachev in his Instagram story (translated from Russian)
The champion’s response came after reports of renewed bombings in Gaza. The conflict, a long-standing and complex issue, had escalated once again. Makhachev didn’t mince words or try to soften his message. The fighter known for his cool head in the cage showed a fiery side.
This wasn’t the first time Makhachev spoke about the situation. After his victory at UFC 294, he addressed the issue in his post-fight interview. It’s rare to see athletes wade into such contentious waters. Many prefer to stay neutral, but Islam Makhachev chose a different path.
Khamzat Chimaev Vows To Fight For Palestine
Islam Makhachev isn’t the only one who has raised his voice for the people of Palestine. Many others, including Khabib Nurmagomedov and Belal Muhammad, have made pleas to stop the war, but one fighter’s impassioned statement caught the attention of the world.
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Khamzat Chimaev, the Chechen-born fighter’s UFC 294 post-fight interview, caught the MMA world by storm. Born in a war-torn country himself, his words had passion and heart. He spoke of a conflict thousands of miles away. The ongoing situation in Palestine had clearly touched his heart.
“If Allah allows me to, Wallahi, I will go there as the first person. By Allah, give me a rifle and let me go to Palestine. Allah be pleased with you. Wallahi, I’ve not been raised to be in here wearing shorts…If I get permission to fight for Allah, I’m ready to die for him. I’m not as worried about dying as I am worried about my Muslim brothers,” said Chimaev.
It’s not every day a UFC star offers to join a conflict zone. But for Chimaev, this wasn’t about politics. It was personal. Chimaev has seen his fair share of conflict. Perhaps that’s why the plight of Palestinians resonated so deeply with him.
Chimaev’s, Islam Makhachev’s, and many others’ pleas to end this war and suffering have not gone unheard. The hope that the conflict will end sooner rather than later has become a pressing matter worldwide.
Also Read: Joe Rogan Reveals The Real Reason Behind Khamzat Chimaev’s Constant Pull-Outs From Fights
