Musaev on Football: Cyprus Academy & Evolving Toughness | Pisechny Interview

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Shamil Musaev, the 2024 Professional Fighters League (PFL) Welterweight Tournament Champion, is currently ranked #1 in the PFL welterweight division as of January 27, 2026, and #9 in the PFL men’s pound-for-pound rankings as of February 12, 2026.

The Russian mixed martial artist, born January 8, 1994, in Kizlyar, Dagestan, fights out of Mytishchi, Moscow Oblast, and trains with Achalo Magomedaminov and Vladimir Hosiya. Musaev’s style is rooted in Wushu Sanda, and he maintains an orthodox stance. He is affiliated with both Golden Team (MMA Team) and SC Akhmatov (Wushu Sanda Team).

Musaev’s professional MMA record stands at 20 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw. Of his 20 victories, 12 have come by knockout, 2 by submission, and 4 by decision. His single loss was a decision. He holds the distinction of being the youngest-ever winner of season four of the “Mix Fighters” series.

Prior to his success in MMA, Musaev demonstrated prowess in Wushu Sanda, earning the title of International Master of Sport in the discipline. He also achieved recognition in amateur MMA, becoming an International Master of Sport in that field as well. He is a European MMA champion (2016) and a world MMA champion (2017), competing as a member of the Russian national team during those tournaments.

Musaev’s recent activity includes a fight on February 7, 2026, according to Tapology, though the details of that bout are not specified. He currently weighs 170 lbs (77 kg) and stands at 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) with a reach of 72 in (183 cm). He attended the Russian University of Cooperation.

Tapology currently ranks Musaev as the #4 Pro Welterweight in North America and the #50 Current Best MMA Welterweight Fighter. He is also ranked #83 as a current best P4P MMA Fighter. Regionally, he is ranked #1 Pro Welterweight in the Middle East & Africa region.

You may also like

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.