ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
UFC Lightweight Champion and renowned Russian professional mixed martial artist, Islam Makhachev, expressed his admiration for Abu Dhabi’s dedication to sports and investment in the future generation of athletes. Boasting a remarkable record of 25 wins versus one loss, Makhachev shared his thoughts from the sidelines of the inaugural Union Wrestling Cup, organised by the UAE Wrestling Federation under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The event was hosted at Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Arena on January 24-25.
“Happy to be here in Abu Dhabi for the first wrestling event. In my opinion, this event is for the younger generations and kids,” said the 32-year-old champion. “In our country, Dagestan, Khabib, and I, everyone begins with wrestling. The sport of wrestling will make your body strong and prepare you for any other sport. If you start with wrestling, in my opinion, you can do any sport. I wish the very best for the kids.”
Makhachev commended Abu Dhabi for prioritizing sports and nurturing the next generation of athletes. “In the future, I see many things happening in Abu Dhabi. Their focus is on sports, specifically targeting the new generation from Abu Dhabi. They are investing a lot of energy and money in this. I believe we will see the results soon because when you focus and invest, results follow. So, stay patient and keep working. Abu Dhabi has great potential,” he added.
Makhachev was also seen engaging with fans and participants during a meet and greet session at the fan zone. After the opening ceremony, he also took some time to meet the fighters of Motaraha, the traditional Emirati wrestling which is also part of the competition.