The rise of Dagestani dominance in MMA has sparked a flood of commentary online — from praise to controversy. One of the loudest voices in the MMA community, known as MMA Guru, recently stirred debate by suggesting that genetic and historical factors are the reason fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev are so dominant.

But how much truth is there to this claim?

Let’s break down the real history, culture, and genetic factors behind Dagestan — and whether Guru’s take holds any weight.

Dagestan: The Land of Warriors

Located in the North Caucasus region of Russia, Dagestan has long been known for its warrior culture. For centuries, this mountainous region was home to tribes that constantly fought to survive — against each other, invading empires, and harsh terrain.

Dagestan has over 30 ethnic groups, including Avars (like Khabib), Dargins, Lezgins, and Kumyks.

Its people have a long tradition of combat, resistance, and resilience.

Wrestling, judo, and sambo are national pastimes — often practiced before a child can even read.

So yes, history and environment have helped shape Dagestan into a combat sports powerhouse.

Genetics: Do Dagestanis Have a Physical Edge?

MMA Guru implied that Dagestani fighters possess superior genetics for grappling and endurance. While this is a simplification, there are some scientific observations:

People from mountainous regions, like Dagestan, often develop greater lung capacity and cardiovascular efficiency due to high-altitude adaptation.

Centuries of physical labor and constant motion in rugged terrain contribute to functional strength and durability.

But to claim they’re “genetically superior” ignores a key truth:
Work ethic, coaching, and environment are far more important than raw DNA.

Khabib and Islam weren’t born champions — they were shaped into them by fathers, coaches, and grueling systems built over decades.

Cultural Discipline & Religion

One factor MMA Guru didn’t fully acknowledge is the cultural discipline that defines Dagestani fighters.

Most top fighters from the region, like Khabib and Islam, are devout Muslims.

Their faith emphasizes humility, discipline, and mental strength — all crucial in MMA.

The lack of distractions (alcohol, nightlife, etc.) allows them to train year-round, with incredible focus.

This mental edge is often underestimated, yet it’s a major reason why Dagestani fighters rarely gas out, panic, or break under pressure.

Training System: Abdulmanap’s Legacy

Another fact MMA Guru glosses over? The coaching legacy behind Dagestani success — especially the influence of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib’s father.

He created a hybrid combat system, blending:

Wrestling

Judo

Sambo

Combat strategy grounded in discipline

Khabib and Islam were raised in this system since early childhood, training 6 days a week, often in harsh rural settings. It’s not genetics — it’s grind, system, and sacrifice.

 Final Verdict: Is MMA Guru Right?

Partially — but mostly wrong.

 He’s right that Dagestan has unique historical and environmental advantages.
 There may be some mild genetic traits like stamina adaptation.
 But he oversimplifies the truth — it’s not about being “born different.” It’s about being trained differently.

Khabib, Islam, and others didn’t inherit greatness.
They earned it — through generations of work, sacrifice, and a combat system few outside Dagestan can replicate.

So next time someone chalks it all up to “genetics” — remind them:
You can’t inherit greatness. You have to fight for it. 🥇🇷🇺