Islam Makhachev enrolls in master's program in Dubai

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has enrolled in a master's degree program at the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics in Dubai. The university officially announced his admission, noting his ambition to pursue academic growth alongside his professional fighting career.

Makhachev recently secured his 17th consecutive UFC victory by defending his title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330. Beyond his athletic achievements, he has been expanding his business interests, including a recent investment of approximately 50 million rubles (around $685,000) into the padel business, with plans to expand into Dubai, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan.

While continuing his studies, Makhachev aims to defend his title again before the start of Ramadan in February 2027. Potential challengers include Carlos Prates, though the UFC has not yet officially announced his next opponent.