In this era of UFC, fighter expression is rare, which is why custom UFC shorts are all the rage.
There was a time when fighters displayed their brand deals turning sponsorships into a form of self-expression both in and outside the cage. This individuality extended to custom fighter banners and unique walkouts.
However, the UFC’s uniform partnerships with companies like Reebok and Venum changed the landscape, stripping fighters of much of their creative freedom. Today, the gradual return of fighter flair feels more like a novelty, even though the monetary rewards that once accompanied it are a thing of the past.
This doesn’t mean the fans don’t like the designs. Alex Pereira’s and Max Holloway’s custom trunks at UFC 300 turned heads, and now Islam Makhachev and Merab Dvalishvili are set to debut their signature looks at UFC 311.
Islam Makhachev and Merab Dvalishvili get custom shorts for UFC 311
Makhachev’s shorts represent the Caucasus mountains, with what appears to be a Caucasian Qama (dagger) on the right leg. Dvalishvili’s shorts don the white and red of the Georgian flag, with faint imagery of presumably a Georgian warrior on horseback and a block of text on the rear-right thigh.
The text looks to be an excerpt from the Georgian poem, ‘The Knight in the Panther’s Skin’ by Shota Rustaveli. It reads, “A glorious death is better than a shameful life.” This is fitting for Dvalishvili, who previously jested he would have ended his life with a loss to Henry Cejudo at UFC 298.
As of now it isn’t confirmed whether any other UFC 311 fighters are receiving a bespoke look.
A look back at the best custom UFC shorts
Alex Pereira’s custom UFC shorts paid homage to his indigenous roots, with a burst of Pataxó color.
Charles Oliveira’s shorts harkened to his upbringing in ‘Do Bronx’, or the favelas of Brazil.
Max Holloway’s shorts brought an element of Hawaiian expression to the Octagon.
Country-boy Bryce Mitchell has his camouflage shorts.
Leon Edwards’ shorts for UFC 304 brought together elements of Jamaica and the United Kingdom.
Zhang Weili’s shorts reminded fans of a Chinese dragon.
Dustin Poirier dons the tropical essence of Louisiana.
Dricus Du Plessis represented South Africa.