A few years ago, there was not a single Russian athlete in the strongest MMA league in the world (UFC). Over the nearly fifteen-year history of the organization's existence, only a few domestic fighters crossed the octagon threshold and they were all pioneers of this sport. Today, Russian athletes storm the overseas promotion and pave their way to the coveted title with every tournament. Among them is Magomed Khasanovich Bibulatov.
The beginning of a sports career
Magomed Bibulatov was born in Chechnya, in the village of Achkhoy-Martan, near Grozny. Like most local guys, from childhood he gravitated to martial arts. He began to take his first sports steps under the guidance of his uncle.
In his youth, he tried himself in karate, hand-to-hand combat and complex combat, where he achieved significant results, including becoming the 4-time world kick-jits champion. In addition, he performed a lot at Russian and international tournaments in integrated martial arts, kempo and UKADO. For outstanding sports achievements he was awarded the national Golden Belt Award.
He spent his first professional fight in 2013, forcing an opponent from France to surrender in the first round. Then 4 more fights in France and Portugal followed. The impressive record earned during this time - 5-0 opened the way for the young athlete to one of the best Russian promotions - ACB and WFCA.
Homeland Fame
In domestic leagues, Magomed Bibulatov continued his unbeaten run. First, three fights in a row at the ACB lightweight champion (up to 61 kg) and a victory in the grand prix were won. I must say that today the ACB league has reached the international level and success in it guarantees fame for athletes and getting into the field of view of American organizations.
After speaking at ACB, Bibulatov took part in the WFCA Grand Prix (Akhmat), where he defeated four rivals, two of whom he knocked out in the first round, and became the winner of the tournament. A brilliant track record opened the athlete to America.
Speeches at UFC and WSOF
In parallel with performances in his homeland, Magomed Bibulatov signed a contract with one of the world's leading fighting organizations - WSOF. Having descended to the flyweight, in his debut fight Bibulatov immediately fought for the newly inaugurated belt. Chaborz’s rival (Bibulatov’s nickname) was the American fighter Donavan Frilou. Dominating in every aspect of the battle and winning all rounds, Magomed became the world champion according to the organization.
With a record of 13-0 and three titles behind Magomed Bibulatov, they signed up for the most prestigious MMA Federation of the world - the UFC.
The debut battle took place against Filipino Ginel Laus. The picture has not changed. Over 3 rounds, Bibulatov completely dominated the opponent and earned his first victory in the UFC.
The last fight Magomed Bibulatov held against a former title contender, American John Moragi. Before the fight, Bibulatov was considered a clear favorite and even the UFC champion Demitrius Johnson (at that time the best fighter on the planet, regardless of weight category) considered him as the main contender. However, this time fortune turned away from the Russian.
An experienced opponent managed to catch Magomed with a right overhand and won by knockout in the first round. But Magomed Bibulatov is still one of the most talented flyers in the UFC.
Statistics of Magomed Bibulatov:
Rival | Result | Way |
John Moraga | Defeat | KO / TKO |
Ginel Lausa | Victory | Judges Decision |
Yunus Yevloyev | Victory | Change |
Giovanni Santos Jr. | Victory | KO / TKO |
Irmeson Cavalcante | Victory | Judges Decision |
Donavan Freelow | Victory | Judges Decision |
Eduardo Felipe | Victory | KO / TKO |
Oliver Pastor | Victory | Judges Decision |
Said Nurmagomedov | Victory | Judges Decision |
Shamil Shakhbiev | Victory | Change |
Taylor lapius | Victory | Judges Decision |
Oscar Nave | Victory | Judges Decision |
Michael Kanguichev | Victory | Change |
Magomedrasul Omarov | Victory | Change |
Mlhamed Zadok | Victory | Change |
So, it is clear that the athlete won the predominant number of fights.