The Russian-born UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev once made an entrance with the Ukrainian flag on his shoulder. Islam Makhachev is currently preparing for his upcoming mega-fight against Alexander Volkanovski. The Russian recently spoke about the lack of promotion by Dana White and UFC for such a huge fight. However, a recent post showing him donning the Ukrainian flag has sent ripples through the MMA community.

Islam Makhachev is proud of his Russian heritage. Moreover, the current ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine makes this news even more unbelievable. However, fans had their take on the whole situation.

Fans React to Islam Makhachev donning the Ukrainian flag

Fans were left in a state of shock when they saw the footage of Islam Makhachev wearing the Ukrainian flag on his shoulder. Here’s what the fans had to say:

A fan said: “Ukraine was a sponsor of Abdulmanap team. Thats the reason”

One fan said: “I think Fedor was too back in his pride days”

Another fan said: “I think Khabib too, for a while they trained there”

Whilst one fan said: “He suits the clean shave. Curious about the backstory here but.”

Meanwhile, a fan said: “Khabib father is ex-ukranian soldier and many their relatives is ukranian”

Some fans said: “Khabib too in M-1″

A fan said: “Abdulmanap had lots of history in Ukraine, they trained in Ukraine for years (got their Judo black belts there) and much more. People assume too much and are plain weirdos.”

Another fan exclaimed: “What?1 No! No! No!”

Makhachev pens tribute to late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov

Islam Makhachev celebrated his UFC lightweight title win over Charles Oliveira with a touching tribute to his late coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. He expressed his gratitude for all that Abdulmanap taught him and dedicated the win to him.

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In his tribute, Makhachev said, “I became a champion today. I wish I could put this belt on my coach’s shoulder in the octagon. His presence would have made this victory even more meaningful. May Allah grant him the highest rank in paradise, coach.” Makhachev honors his coach’s memory and continues to be inspired by him.

Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was one of the most respected MMA coaches. He trained both Khabib and Makhachev, helping them achieve their goals. The tribute showed the impact Abdulmanap had on the lightweight champ’s life and career.

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