As Islam Makhachev gears up to defend his lightweight strap at UFC 311, he’s making more and more media appearances.
This means pairing up with popular Kick streamer Adin Ross for some light-hearted antics at the UFC Performance Institute. Makhachev not only tapped Ross out in a playful sparring session but also confronted him over a baffling question that inadvertently scrutinized Russia’s infrastructure.
Being pressed by the UFC lightweight champion shouldn’t be on anybody’s to-do list.
‘Crazy question’ … Islam Makhachev pressures Adin Ross for Russian wi-fi confusion
Makhachev hails from Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan. Dagestan is a Republic of Russia, one of the world’s superpowers – though Ross seemed to have the wrong impression.
“Is there wi-fi out there in Russia?” Ross asked Makhachev and his manager, Ali Abdelaziz.
Abdelaziz sneered and turned to Makhachev, “Hey, this guy asks if Russia has wi-fi.”
Makhachev rebutted Ross’ question, “Everything that you find in the USA [you’ll find in Russia]. … You better come soon because you think Russia is like [unintelligible], no? … No technology.”
Makhachev wasn’t letting Ross off the hook so easily and pressed him again later in the stream.
“It’s a crazy question,” Makhachev forced an apology out of Ross. “Russia having wi-fi. [he laughs]”
Makhachev kept a calm demeanour, considering his next fight is less than a week away.
What you need to know about Islam Makhachev’s next fight
Makhachev headlines UFC 311 on January 18, making a record-fourth lightweight title defense against Arman Tsarukyan. No fighter in lightweight UFC history has defended the belt more than three times; Makhachev is currently tied with Khabib Nurmagomedov, Benson Henderson, and BJ Penn with three defences.
Makhachev isn’t bothered about breaking Nurmagomedov’s record. Belal Muhammad at welterweight is also in Makhachev’s sights as a potential double-championship fight.