FIAS President congratulates SAMBO Ambassador Islam Makhachev on his victory

FIAS President Vasily Shestakov has commented on Islam Makhachev's bout against Ian Machado Garry:

“On behalf of the International SAMBO Federation and the entire SAMBO community, I want to congratulate Islam Makhachev on a brilliant victory. Today, Islam not only defended his welterweight title but also wrote his name into the history of mixed martial arts, setting a UFC record for the longest winning streak: 17 consecutive victories.

For those of us in SAMBO, it is especially gratifying to see how the skills instilled through Combat SAMBO are helping Islam dominate at the highest level of MMA. It is worth recalling that Makhachev is the 2016 Combat SAMBO World Champion. It is no coincidence that he was recently awarded the title of Honoured Master of Sport of Russia in SAMBO, and that FIAS named him an official 'SAMBO Ambassador to the World.' This fight was a vivid demonstration of just how versatile a fighter becomes after coming through the SAMBO school.

Islam confirmed that he is the best fighter on the planet not only on the ground but also on his feet. His superiority was perhaps most clearly on display in the second round, when a kick sent Garry to the canvas. The takedown and ground control that followed were SAMBO fundamentals executed to perfection.

At the same time, I believe it is important to pay tribute to Ian Machado Garry. The Irishman showed remarkable resilience and character, going the full five rounds against the best fighter in the world. He is undoubtedly an athlete with a bright future ahead of him, but Islam's vast experience, masterful technique, and SAMBO skills, both standing and on the ground, ultimately secured a convincing victory for the Russian sambist. It should be noted that Garry did not simply survive - he sought out his moments, competed hard, and showed his best qualities. This fight will stand as valuable experience that can only make him stronger.

I congratulate Islam on this historic achievement. He not only brings glory to our sport, which originated in the USSR, but is also making an unprecedented contribution to popularising SAMBO on the international stage. We are proud that it was the SAMBO school that raised such a fighter, and we are confident his example will inspire thousands of young athletes around the world to take up our sport.”