Islam Makhachev vs Justin Gaethje
Islam Makhachev vs Justin Gaethje: head-to-head — careers, honours, key numbers and why the rivalry matters.
Why compare Islam Makhachev and Justin Gaethje?
Makhachev and Gaethje are contemporaries in the lightweight division, both vying for the championship and recognition as elite fighters.
Islam Makhachev
Key numbers
- Total Fights29
- Wins28
- Losses1
- Knockouts5
- Submissions13
Top honours
- UFC Lightweight ChampionWon at UFC 280 in 2022
- UFC Welterweight ChampionCurrent champion as of 2023
- Combat Sambo World ChampionWon gold in 2016
- Two-time Russian National ChampionWon in 2014 and 2016 at -74 kg
VS
Justin Gaethje
Key numbers
- MMA Record27 wins, 5 losses
- Knockouts20 wins by knockout
- Submissions1 win by submission
- Decisions6 wins by decision
- Amateur Record7 wins, 0 losses
Top honours
- UFC Interim Lightweight ChampionTwo-time holder
- WSOF Lightweight ChampionFirst and only champion
- Fight of the Night Bonuses10 bonuses, tied for most in UFC history
- Post-Fight Bonuses15 bonuses in 15 UFC appearances
- NCAA Division I All-AmericanAchieved during collegiate wrestling career