Understanding the backgrounds, early life, and training of MMA fighters like Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski is crucial in comprehending the journey that has brought them to the pinnacle of their respective divisions. Both Fighter Backgrounds have distinct backgrounds and life stories that have played a significant role in shaping their careers. In this article, we will delve into the early lives, upbringings, and training of Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski.
Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev was born on September 27, 1991, in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia. Dagestan is renowned for producing numerous top MMA talents, and Makhachev is no exception. His early life was marked by exposure to combat sports, with his father being a coach and a black belt in judo. Growing up in this environment, Makhachev developed an early interest in combat sports.
Makhachev’s journey in martial arts began with training in judo, much like his father. This laid the foundation for his grappling skills, which are a defining aspect of his MMA style. As he continued to evolve as a fighter, he transitioned to mixed martial arts and joined the prestigious American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, California. AKA is known for producing elite fighters, and Makhachev’s affiliation with the gym has played a crucial role in his development as a fighter.
Training and Evolution
Makhachev’s training regimen at AKA is rigorous, focusing on various aspects of MMA, including striking, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He is known for his exceptional ground game, which he developed through extensive training and sparring with some of the best fighters in the world. His training partners include UFC stars like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier, and Luke Rockhold, which has undoubtedly contributed to his growth as a fighter.
Makhachev’s relentless work ethic and commitment to his craft have allowed him to evolve as a fighter. He is known for his measured and intelligent fighting style, which combines his grappling prowess with improving striking skills. This evolution has made him a formidable force in the lightweight division.
Alexander Volkanovski
Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski was born on September 29, 1988, in Shellharbour, New South Wales, Australia. His early life was quite different from Makhachev’s upbringing in Dagestan. Volkanovski’s first exposure to combat sports came through rugby league, a popular sport in Australia. He played as a fullback and enjoyed a successful rugby league career before transitioning to MMA.
Volkanovski’s journey to MMA was influenced by his brother, who introduced him to the sport. His early days in MMA were marked by dedication and a commitment to becoming the best fighter he could be. Volkanovski’s rise in the sport is a testament to his determination and work ethic.
Training and Evolution
Volkanovski’s training started in Australia, where he honed his skills in various martial arts disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and kickboxing. He joined Freestyle Fighting Gym in Windang, New South Wales, where he trained with local fighters and coaches. As he gained experience and success, he expanded his horizons and sought opportunities to train with world-class fighters and coaches.
Volkanovski pivotal decision
In 2012, Volkanovski made the pivotal decision to travel to Thailand and train at the renowned Tiger Muay Thai gym. This move exposed him to a new level of training and competition. Thailand, known for its world-class Muay Thai fighters, was instrumental in improving his striking skills. His time at Tiger Muay Thai had a profound impact on his development as a fighter, and it is evident in his well-rounded skill set.
Volkanovski’s training philosophy centers on hard work, discipline, and continuous improvement. He has often emphasized the importance of staying humble and always looking for ways to evolve as a fighter. This mindset, combined with his diverse training experiences, has contributed to his remarkable success in the UFC’s featherweight division.
Conclusion
In the world of MMA, fighters like Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski represent diverse backgrounds and paths to success. Makhachev’s upbringing in Dagestan, Russia, and training at AKA have shaped him into a grappling specialist with formidable skills. On the other hand, Volkanovski’s journey from rugby league to the UFC featherweight championship was marked by hard work, determination, and training in various disciplines, including his transformative experience at Tiger Muay Thai in Thailand.
