Former UFC and One Championship flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson has weighed in on rumors claiming that the UFC has become increasingly reluctant to sign fighters from Dagestan and Russia. According to the MMA legend, the speculation stems from the remarkable level of skill, discipline, and competitiveness consistently demonstrated by athletes from the region.
Johnson emphasized that many Dagestani fighters possess a rare blend of striking proficiency and world-class grappling, making them exceptionally difficult opponents to prepare for. Pointing to Umar Nurmagomedov as a prime example, he praised the undefeated contender’s ability to dictate the pace of a fight, seamlessly mixing stand-up offense with relentless takedown threats. Johnson suggested that this versatility is what sets many fighters from the region apart and allows them to compete at the highest level of the sport.
