Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin recently congratulated Islam Makhachev on his major career milestone. Ovechkin praised Makhachev and stated his full support as a proud countryman. He expressed genuine excitement for Makhachev’s success and showed respect for his skills.
Makhachev, 34, became the new UFC welterweight champion at UFC 322. He held the record for most consecutive successful UFC lightweight title defense and then vacated to chase a new challenge.
The Dagestani moved up to 170-pounds and looked confident at the higher weight. Makhachev earned a dominant unanimous decision win over Jack Della Maddalena, solidifying his pound-for-pound status. The Dagestani now joins the list of MMA greats to become a two-division UFC champion.
Only 10 other fighters have achieved that prior to him. Makhachev carried his pressure, grappling, and strength into the new division and took Della Maddalena down with ease.
Many praised Makhachev’s performance afterward, with Dana White claiming that he is only a few fights away from entering the GOAT debate.
Ovechkin, 40, knows the feeling of achieving major career milestones. Last season, he passed Wayne Gretzky and became the NHL’s all time leading goal scorer.
Ovechkin spoke highly of Makhachev and shared how much Russia respects him. The Capitals captain recorded a short video message that was shown to Makhachev during his interview with Sportsnet after becoming champion.
“Hello, Islam! Ovi here. I want to wish you luck in your fight today,” Ovechkin said [translated]. “We will support you and cheer for you. You should know that you always have our support. Well, best of luck to you. Show them your class.”
Islam Makhachev Reacts to Capitals Captain Alex Ovechkin’s Message
Islam Makhachev appreciated Alex Ovechkin’s heartfelt message. He thanked the Capitals captain for his support and the kind words, and shared what it meant to him.
During an interview Sportsnet, Makhachev revealed he followed Ovechkin since childhood. He recalled following his NHL career and expressed hope they could meet in person one day.
“[Ovechkin is] a legend. I watched [him] when I [was a] kid,” Makhachev said. “How he played. I want to meet this guy one day. He’s one of the biggest names in sports. And I respect him a lot and thanks so much.”
Both athletes hold major influence in their sports and share strong ties to their home country, so it is a possibility.
Makhachev Sent a Message Ovechkin During UFC 322 Fight Week
Makhachev also sent Ovechkin a message during UFC 322 fight week. Ovechkin had recently become the first NHL player to reach 900 goals. It was a major career milestone, as it further solidified him as the greatest goal scorer of all time.
During fight week, Sportsnet filmed several fighters, including Makhachev, for hockey-themed segments. They taped hockey sticks and shared their thoughts on the gloves and on fighting being allowed in the sport.
After taping his stick, Makhachev mentioned Ovechkin. The UFC champion called him his favorite player and even used the GOAT label.
“Now I can give this [stick] to Ovechkin. Yes, [he’s my favorite player],” Makhachev told Sportsnet. “No, [I] never [met him before]. Hey, GOAT, one day we will meet.”
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