Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker recently offered a candid and respectful breakdown of Islam Makhachev’s evolution, crediting the lightweight champion for developing into one of the most complete fighters in the sport today. Known for his analytical honesty, Whittaker highlighted how Makhachev’s skill set has grown far beyond the dominant wrestling and grappling foundation that first carried him to the top.
Whittaker praised Makhachev for what he called a “significant improvement” in his striking, noting that the lightweight champion’s comfort and confidence on the feet have expanded dramatically over the past few years. He explained that Makhachev originally fought with a “very basic” kickboxing style but has since sharpened his timing, spacing, and overall fight vision to a level that complements his grappling in a dangerous way.
“He’s always fought kind of very basic … but his timing and his eyesight has just gotten much better, his spacing has just gotten much better,” Whittaker said, emphasizing how these upgrades have transformed Makhachev into a far more unpredictable and well-rounded threat.
Beyond striking, Whittaker acknowledged that Makhachev’s elite grappling remains as suffocating as ever. According to him, there is clearly a “skill gap” between Makhachev and most of the lightweight division — a gap created by the champion’s rare ability to blend world-class wrestling with improved striking fundamentals and high fight IQ.
Whittaker’s comments reflect more than admiration. They represent recognition from a fellow elite fighter who understands how difficult it is to dominate across multiple disciplines at the championship level. In his view, Makhachev is not only maintaining dominance but actively evolving with every performance.
By Whittaker’s assessment, Islam Makhachev is no longer just a grappling powerhouse — he is rapidly becoming one of the most complete and dangerous fighters the lightweight division has ever seen.
