Shamil Gaziev has made a name for himself in the UFC heavyweight division thanks to his remarkable blend of Dagestani wrestling knowledge and accurate hitting. His journey from rural Russia to international MMA fame as the first Bahraini representative in the UFC demonstrates his talent and perseverance. Let’s examine his fighting technique, career, and future potential.
Upcoming Fight: UFC Saudi Arabia 2025
On February 1, 2025, Shamil Gaziev (13-1) will play Thomas Petersen in Riyadh. With a 9-2 record, Petersen is a southpaw who presents a formidable challenge (4.32 significant strikes/minute). Gaziev’s comeback in the rankings depends on this fight.
Quick introduction
Name | Shamil Gaziev | Height | 6’3″ |
Nick Names | Â | Weight | 262.4 lb |
Birth Date | 1970-01-01 | Reach | 78.5″ |
Age | 33 | Leg Reach | 0.0″ |
Nationality | Â Russia | Representing | Manama, Bahrain |
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Fighting Style
Fighting Style | Striker / Grappler | Stance | Orthodox |
Ranks |
| Camp |
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Shamil Gaziev - Personal Life and Legacy
• Nationality and Identity – Shamil Gaziev serves as Bahrain’s representative while being a Russian citizen, connecting his Dagestani roots with his work experience.
• Faith and Values – Outside of the octagon, Gaziev, a devoted Muslim, places a strong emphasis on respect and humility.
• Earnings and Net Worth – Gaziev makes $44,000 per bout, plus sponsorships, and has an estimated net worth of $50,000.
Shamil Gaziev Early Life and Dagestani Roots
Shamil Gaziev was born in Khunzakh, Dagestan, Russia, on February 10, 1990, and was raised in the untamed Caucasus. Immersed in a culture that is renowned for generating elite wrestlers, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, the father of Khabib Nurmagomedov, a UFC star, provided Gaziev with early instruction. His skills were developed as a result of this training.
Gaziev’s discipline and work ethic, which would later characterise his professional career, were honed by his upbringing in the martial arts community of Dagestan.
Shamil Gaziyev's amateur career and transition to professional MMA
Shamil Gaziev’s amateur MMA career from 2018 to 2021 cleared the way for his success. With a 9-2 record, he demonstrated ability in both grappling and striking. After entering the professional ranks in 2020, Gaziev defeated Denis Gvozdev in the Belarusian Fight Championship to make his debut.
Shamil Gaziev shown domination during his early professional career, finishing 11 of his first 12 fights in promotions such as Brave CF and ARES FC.
UFC Career and Rise to Prominence
After defeating Greg Velasco via rear-naked choke in the opening round of Dana White’s Contender Series in 2023, Gaziev was able to acquire a UFC contract. He made his debut at UFC 296 in December 2023, defeating Martin Buday via TKO in the second round to show off his strength.
UFC Fight Night 238: First Career Loss
Gaziev made his UFC main event debut in March 2024, facing up against Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Unfortunately, Gaziev’s undefeated record of 12-0 was ended by a TKO loss in the fourth round due to damage to his nose and eye. After the bout, Rozenstruik praised Gaziev’s tenacity, and Shamil Gaziev vowed to return even more determined.
Historic Bahraini Representation
The first Bahraini UFC competitor, Shamil Gaziev, trains in Manama with the KHK MMA Team. This affiliation demonstrates Bahrain’s growing influence in combat sports, with Shamil Gaziev serving as a trailblazer for the nation.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Dagestani wrestling is the foundation of Gaziev’s style, which is enhanced by powerful striking:
• Grappling Expertise – Trained by Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, he uses submissions and suffocating top control, which has led to three career submission victories.
• Striking Power – He used his 6’4″ stature and 78-inch reach to overcome opponents in 8 of his 13 KO/TKO victories.
• Cardio and Durability – Shamil Gaziev outpaces opponents in later rounds by maintaining a fast pace despite his stature.
• Striking Power – He used his 6’4″ stature and 78-inch reach to overcome opponents in 8 of his 13 KO/TKO victories.
• Cardio and Durability – Gaziev outstrikes opponents in later rounds because he keeps up a fast tempo despite his stature.
What is Shamil Gaziev’s net worth?
Shamil Gaziev’s estimated net worth is $50,000 based on his declared earnings. As a heavyweight champion with no losses in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Gaziev makes the most of his money from his accomplishments in the octagon. Furthermore, being a fighter in the world’s most prominent MMA organisation, the Bahranian’s income will inevitably be augmented by several sponsorships and endorsements.
Residence | Manama, Bahrain |
Net Worth | $50,000 (estimated) |
Marital Status | Unknown |
Source of Wealth | Professional mixed martial arts, Endorsements, Sponsorships, etc. |
Salary | $44,000 |
Shamil Gaziev Salary
At UFC 296: Edwards vs. Covington, Shamil Gaziev’s most recent earnings were revealed from his UFC debut bout against Martin Buday. For this fight, he was paid a guaranteed base salary of $44,000 plus a $50,000 “Performance Of The Night” bonus, for a total of $94,000.
Future Outlook and Challenges
Shamil Gaziev, 34, is still a contender in the erratic heavyweight class of the UFC. His future course consists of:
• Technical Improvement: Better defence against top strikers (44% significant strike defence).
• Ascent in Rankings: He might move into the top 15 with a victory versus Petersen.
• Longevity: striking a balance between his peak physicality and his late professional debut (at 30).
• Longevity: Juggling his peak physicality with his late professional debut (at 30).
Conclusion
Shamil Gaziev’s journey from the Dagestani foothills to the UFC main event is a testament to perseverance. Despite 2024 breaking his unbroken streak, he is unflinching in his resolve. Fans are excitedly awaiting the next chapter in the career of MMA’s unstoppable fighter as he prepares for UFC Saudi Arabia.
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