Islam Makhachev stars in violent wrestling basketball game, wins bronze medal

Islam Makhachev is considered by many to be the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world right now. Now, Makhachev can be considered a multi-sport expert after his recent performances in his team’s wrestling/basketball game.

The sport, often referred to as wrestball, is an intense hybrid game popular in some regions in Russia. Blending elements of wrestling and basketball, teams earn points by shooting the ball into the hoop on a padded version of a basketball court.

While it shares many similarities with basketball, wrestball allows full-contact grappling, takedowns, and American football-esque tackles.

Able to wrestle opponents and slam them for possession of the ball, it’s clear why Islam Makhachev excels at it. However, despite being one of the best grapplers in modern mixed martial arts, Makhachev also has a keen eye for scoring points with his pinpoint shooting.

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Having showcased his wrestball skills, Makhachev still had to prove he is one of the best wrestlers in the world.

Fighting for possession for his team, the UFC ace landed a sneaky takedown and sent his opponent crashing out of bounds.

Islam Makhachev represented the Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov MMA school team, alongside fellow MMA fighter and PFL ace, Gadzhi Rabadanov.

Makhachev put on the white and green colors and put on some notable displays during his first public appearance at the Caspian Cup wrestball tournament.

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Related: Joe Rogan explains why Islam Makhachev is better than Khabib Nurmagomedov

All eyes were on Islam Makhachev as he helped guide his team to a bronze medal finish in the Caspian Cup, hosted in Kaspiysk, Dagestan.

Many were surprised by Makhachev’s talent. The UFC welterweight king scored three points in the early rounds to battle his way to the final four of the competition.

While a tournament win wasn’t on the cards for the Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov MMA school team, Makhachev is happy to have made an appearance for the children in attendance and will be glad with a podium finish.