LAS VEGAS – Islam Makhachev has established himself as a force in the UFC welterweight division, recently solidifying his reign with a victory over Jack Della Maddalena in October 2025. However, a compelling challenge to his dominance may be emerging in the form of Yaroslav Amosov, with some suggesting the Ukrainian fighter possesses a wrestling and grappling skillset that could rival, and even surpass, Makhachev’s.
The assertion comes from Daniil Donchenko, a fighter who trains alongside Amosov at Syndicate MMA. Donchenko, speaking after his own recent UFC bout, believes Amosov represents a unique threat to Makhachev, potentially more so than other contenders like Khamzat Chimaev. “People will understand this soon,” Donchenko stated, as reported by Bowks Talking Bouts. “Now they just put some comments, oh Makhachev can smash, can beat him. But one thing that I can say, Yaroslav Amosov, he have much better wrestling and grappling than Islam Makhachev and even than Khamzat Chimaev too.”
This claim is significant given Makhachev’s reputation as one of the most dominant grapplers in mixed martial arts, honed under the tutelage of Khabib Nurmagomedov. Makhachev’s ability to control opponents on the ground has been a cornerstone of his success, making him a particularly hard matchup for anyone with vulnerabilities in their takedown defense or ground game. To suggest Amosov possesses a superior skillset in these areas is a bold statement, but one that is gaining traction within certain circles.
Amosov’s background lends credence to the assessment. Before joining the UFC, he enjoyed a successful run in Bellator, showcasing his grappling prowess and earning a reputation as a well-rounded fighter. His transition to the UFC has been closely watched, and his recent debut – a submission victory over Neil Mangy at UFC Vegas 112 – immediately put him on the radar of fans and analysts alike. Following that win, Amosov himself publicly targeted Makhachev’s welterweight title, signaling his ambition, and confidence.
Donchenko’s assessment extends beyond technical skill, highlighting Amosov’s overall potential. He described Amosov as “different,” suggesting a unique quality that sets him apart from other fighters. “He’s like; he’s different,” Donchenko explained. “Just give this guy time and fights and he will prove it. He don’t need five, six fights before title. Give him one more and title, he’s ready. Only this fight makes sense for me because only Yaroslav can defend and can take Islam down.”
The Syndicate MMA environment, under the guidance of head coach John Wood, is also seen as a contributing factor to Amosov’s development. Donchenko praised Wood’s coaching ability and the positive energy within the gym, noting that it fosters an atmosphere conducive to growth and improvement. Merab Dvalishvili, another prominent fighter training at Syndicate MMA, further underscores the gym’s reputation for producing high-level talent.
While a fight between Makhachev and Amosov has not yet been officially scheduled, the prospect is generating considerable excitement within the MMA community. Makhachev’s dominance at welterweight has left many wondering who could realistically challenge his reign, and Amosov’s skillset, combined with Donchenko’s strong endorsement, positions him as a compelling contender. The question now becomes whether the UFC will grant Amosov a relatively quick path to a title shot, allowing him to test his abilities against the division’s champion.
For Amosov, the path forward is clear: continue to build momentum with impressive performances and demonstrate his ability to translate his grappling skills into success within the UFC octagon. If he can do so, a showdown with Islam Makhachev – a fight many believe could be a true test of grappling supremacy – may be inevitable. The stakes are high, and the potential for a thrilling and competitive matchup is undeniable.
What’s Next: Amosov is expected to return to the octagon in the spring of 2026, with the UFC reportedly considering potential opponents who will further test his skills and elevate his ranking within the welterweight division. Fans and analysts will be closely watching his progress, eager to see if he can live up to the hype and establish himself as a legitimate threat to Islam Makhachev’s title.
