The 11 Greatest Russian MMA Fighters of All Time – Ranked

Russia has long been a breeding ground for some of the toughest and most successful fighters in MMA history. From legendary heavyweights to undefeated champions, Russian athletes have shaped the sport on every level. Here’s a look at the 11 greatest Russian MMA fighters of all time.

11. Alexander Shlemenko

Alexander Shlemenko might not be a household name to casual fans, but his resume speaks volumes. A former Bellator middleweight champion, Shlemenko has competed for over two decades across major promotions like M-1 Global and Bellator. With more than 65 career wins, he remains an active competitor and even runs his own promotion, Shlemenko FC.

10. Zabit Magomedsharipov

Zabit Magomedsharipov was once hailed as one of the UFC’s brightest prospects at featherweight. Known for his creative striking and slick submissions, he went undefeated in the UFC with six straight wins. His abrupt retirement to pursue a medical career left fans wondering what could have been, but his potential impact remains undeniable.

9. Petr Yan

Petr Yan rose to the top of the UFC bantamweight division in 2020 when he claimed the title against José Aldo. A precise striker with relentless pressure, Yan looked unstoppable before a controversial disqualification against Aljamain Sterling derailed his reign. Despite setbacks, he has since returned to winning form and remains a dangerous contender.

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8. Andrei Arlovski

A true veteran of the sport, Andrei Arlovski is a former UFC heavyweight champion and holds the record for the most wins in UFC heavyweight history. Throughout his 20-plus year career, he has faced nearly every major name in the division. Even in the twilight of his career, Arlovski’s resilience and longevity are unmatched.

7. Usman Nurmagomedov

Carrying on the Nurmagomedov family legacy, Usman has quickly established himself as one of Russia’s brightest stars. Undefeated and already a PFL lightweight champion, he blends striking and grappling with ease. Trained under the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Usman’s career trajectory suggests he may become one of the greatest in his division.

6. Vadim Nemkov

Vadim Nemkov has carved his name into history as one of the top light heavyweights outside the UFC. A former Bellator champion and four-time title defender, Nemkov also captured the PFL vs. Bellator superfight championship. A protégé of Fedor Emelianenko, Nemkov combines elite sambo skills with powerful striking.

5. Magomed Ankalaev

Magomed Ankalaev has been nearly unstoppable since 2018, earning a reputation as one of the world’s best light heavyweights. Known for his wrestling base and sharp striking, he finally claimed UFC gold after defeating Alex Pereira. With his steady climb and long unbeaten streak, Ankalaev stands as one of Russia’s finest fighters.

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4. Khamzat Chimaev

Though born in Chechnya and later fighting under the Swedish flag, Khamzat Chimaev proudly represents his Russian roots. He burst into the UFC spotlight with dominant finishes and an aggressive style. Undefeated and now UFC middleweight champion, Chimaev’s rise has been meteoric, and his potential seems limitless.

3. Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev has long carried the torch for Team Khabib, earning recognition as one of the most dominant fighters in UFC history. With a well-rounded game rooted in sambo, he defended the lightweight title multiple times and was widely regarded as the pound-for-pound best. Now seeking a second belt at welterweight, his legacy continues to grow.

2. Khabib Nurmagomedov

Khabib Nurmagomedov retired undefeated at 29-0, cementing his place as one of the all-time greats. His suffocating wrestling and ground control made him nearly untouchable inside the Octagon. After fulfilling a promise to his mother following his father’s death, Khabib walked away as a champion, leaving behind a lasting legacy and a new generation of Dagestani fighters.

1. Fedor Emelianenko

Universally regarded as one of the greatest fighters never to compete in the UFC, Fedor Emelianenko dominated during MMA’s golden years. A PRIDE heavyweight champion and multiple-time sambo world champion, Fedor’s calm demeanor and ruthless efficiency made him a legend. Even in retirement, his influence is felt through his protégés and his lasting reputation as “The Last Emperor.”

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