UFC Champion Islam Makhachev Enrolls as Master’s Student at Plekhanov University
Islam Makhachev has enrolled as a master’s student at the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics in Dubai, expanding his pursuits outside the UFC Octagon where he currently reigns as the welterweight champion. The enrollment comes as Makhachev recovers from minor spine issues following his August title defense, while also managing independent business ventures that include a padel franchise expansion across Central Asia and Dubai.
Master’s Studies at Plekhanov Russian University of Economics
The Plekhanov Russian University of Economics announced Makhachev’s admission to its Dubai campus community via its official website. Founded in 1907 as Russia’s oldest institution dedicated to economics and business, the university sits in the top 301-500 bracket of the QS World University Rankings. According to the university’s public announcement, the fighter’s enrollment represents an ambition to continue education beyond athletic competition, aligning with values of discipline and responsibility. The short career spans typical of mixed martial arts have historically driven athletes to establish financial security or pursue academic credentials for post-fighting careers, a path Makhachev is now following alongside his active championship schedule.
Spine Injury Recovery and the UFC Title Defense Timeline
While beginning his graduate coursework, Makhachev is simultaneously addressing physical setbacks sustained during his latest victory. The champion underwent three magnetic resonance imaging scans after defeating Ian Machado Garry in the main event of UFC 330 this past August in Philadelphia, revealing minor spine issues that currently require targeted physical strengthening. Makhachev aims to return to the Octagon before the observance of Ramadan begins in February 2027. Brazilian contender Carlos Prates has emerged as the most likely next challenger for the 170-pound crown, having secured consecutive knockout victories over Geoff Neal, Leon Edwards, and former champion Jack Della Maddalena.
Makhachev Invests 50 Million Roubles in Padel Company
Outside of academics and mixed martial arts training, Makhachev oversees active commercial investments. The UFC star has committed 50 million roubles, translating to approximately $685,000, toward the launch of his own padel company. The athlete intends to scale the enterprise from its origin in Dagestan into an international franchise network, with planned athletic facilities and clubs extending into Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Dubai. This commercial footprint runs parallel to his athletic resume, which includes capturing the lightweight title during a dominant multi-year reign before moving up to seize the welterweight belt against Jack Della Maddalena last November as the eleventh two-division champion in UFC history.
Medical Clearance and Contender Disputes Delay Welterweight Defense
The timeline for Makhachev’s second welterweight defense remains contingent on clearance from medical professionals regarding his spine rehabilitation and subsequent fight booking coordination with the UFC matchmakers. While Makhachev previously suggested that Carlos Prates face undefeated contender Michael Morales to solidify a clear number-one contender status, Prates maintains that his active knockout streak is sufficient to justify the next title opportunity. With Ramadan scheduled to begin around February 8, 2027, depending on lunar observations, the promotion faces a narrow window in late 2026 or early January 2027 to finalize the championship bout before the pre-Ramadan training restrictions take effect for the champion.
Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.