Magomed Zhamaludinovich Magomedov Bio
Magomed Zhamaludinovich Magomedov, born on December 25, 1991, is a Russian mixed martial artist competing in the Bantamweight division of Bellator MMA. Originating from Khasavyurt in Dagestan, he carved out his early career in M-1 Challenge and Absolute Championship Berkut before joining Bellator MMA in 2020. Magomedov has become recognized for his resilience and adaptability in the cage, showcasing significant skills that have enabled him to secure a notable record of 21 wins against various competitors.
Early Life and Background
Magomedov was born in Khasavyurt, Dagestan, Russia. During his school years in Makhachkala, he frequently skipped classes, even forging teachers’ signatures to hide his absences. After his father discovered this, Magomedov was enrolled in the sports boarding school Five Directions of the World, where he began training in martial arts and adapted to a disciplined routine. It was here that he met fellow fighter Zabit Magomedsharipov, who inspired him to study wushu sanda.
Initially, Magomedov struggled to qualify for regional tournaments and had no aspirations for national competition. However, training under Alexander Buryak alongside more experienced partners helped him improve steadily. By 2011, he fully transitioned to mixed martial arts, inspired by friends pursuing professional careers in the sport. He competed as an amateur champion nationally and in Europe before turning professional.
Path to MMA
Magomedov began his professional career in 2011, debuting in M-1 Ukraine with a decisive victory. He continued to build his reputation through wins in various promotions such as Legion Fight, SRPO Federation of Mixed Combat, Pride of Caucasus, and Pro FC. His success in these regional events paved the way for his entry into the M-1 Challenge, where he faced notable international opponents and earned unanimous decision wins over fighters from Poland and Georgia, as well as a technical knockout against a Brazilian competitor.
His growing profile led him to Absolute Championship Berkut (ACB), where he achieved significant success. Magomedov secured a technical knockout in his debut and earned a split decision victory over Petr Yan in a title fight at ACB 32. Although the decision was controversial, it marked a career highlight. He later defended his title successfully before losing a rematch to Yan. Magomedov continued to compete strongly in ACB, defeating several top contenders.
Magomed Zhamaludinovich Magomedov Career
Early Career (2011–2015)
Magomedov’s early professional years were marked by steady progress through regional circuits. His debut in M-1 Ukraine was impressive, and subsequent victories in various Russian promotions helped him establish a solid foundation. These formative years were crucial for developing his skills and gaining experience against diverse opponents.
During this period, he trained with the DagFighter team, which supported his growth as a versatile fighter. His performances earned him recognition and set the stage for his move to larger organizations.
Absolute Championship Berkut Breakthrough (2015–2018)
Magomedov’s tenure in ACB was a defining phase of his career. His debut win by technical knockout demonstrated his striking power, and his split decision victory over Petr Yan for the bantamweight title was a career milestone. Although the decision was disputed, it highlighted Magomedov’s ability to compete at the highest level.
He successfully defended his title with a late guillotine choke submission, showcasing his grappling skills. Despite losing the rematch to Yan, Magomedov remained a top contender, securing wins over Dean Garnett, Edgars Skrivers, and Walter Pereira, solidifying his reputation as a formidable bantamweight.
Bellator MMA Era (2020–Present)
In October 2020, Magomedov signed with Bellator MMA, marking his entry into one of the world’s premier mixed martial arts organizations. He made a successful promotional debut in December 2020 with a unanimous decision win over Matheus Mattos. Magomedov continued to demonstrate his submission skills with a rear-naked choke victory against Cee Jay Hamilton in April 2021.
He faced tough competition in Bellator’s Bantamweight World Grand Prix, defeating Enrique Barzola via guillotine choke in June 2022 but losing to Patchy Mix by technical submission in December 2022. In July 2023, Magomedov rebounded with a first-round submission win over Danny Sabatello. He challenged Patchy Mix again for the Bellator Bantamweight World Championship in May 2024 but lost by split decision.
Driving Style and Strengths
Magomedov is known for his resilience and adaptability inside the cage. His fighting style blends striking and grappling, with notable submission skills evidenced by multiple guillotine choke victories. He excels in endurance and tactical adjustments, often wearing down opponents over the course of a fight. His training with DagFighter has honed his well-rounded approach and strategic fight management.
Notable Events and Milestones
Magomedov’s split decision win over Petr Yan for the ACB bantamweight title was a pivotal moment in his career, earning recognition despite controversy. His participation in Bellator’s Bantamweight World Grand Prix and multiple title shots highlight his status as a top-tier competitor. His ability to secure submission wins in high-stakes bouts underscores his technical proficiency and competitive spirit.
Magomed Zhamaludinovich Magomedov Career Wins
Magomedov has amassed a professional record of 21 wins and 5 losses, demonstrating consistent success across multiple organizations. His victories include wins by decision, knockout, and submission, reflecting his versatility as a fighter.
Bellator MMA Highlights
Since joining Bellator in 2020, Magomedov has recorded several key wins, including his debut unanimous decision victory and multiple submission finishes. His performance in the Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix showcased his competitive level, with wins over notable opponents and close contests in title fights.
Other Wins & Performances
Before Bellator, Magomedov earned significant wins in M-1 Challenge and Absolute Championship Berkut. His victory over Petr Yan for the ACB bantamweight title and successful title defense are among his career highlights. These performances established him as a respected figure in the bantamweight division internationally.
Magomed Zhamaludinovich Magomedov Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Details about Magomedov’s family background are limited. He was raised in Dagestan, a region known for producing skilled combat athletes, which influenced his early exposure to martial arts.
Personal Life
Magomedov resides in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia. Information about his marital status or children is not publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
Magomedov is set to compete in the 2025 Professional Fighters League (PFL) Bantamweight Tournament. Although he withdrew from the quarterfinal bout due to injury, he returned to win an alternate bout by unanimous decision. Later in the year, he faced former Bellator Bantamweight Champion Sergio Pettis but suffered a knockout loss. The 2025 season presents opportunities for Magomedov to continue showcasing his skills and pursue championship ambitions in a new organization.