Israel Adesanya vs Islam Makhachev
Head-to-head comparison — tale of the tape, career analysis, stylistic breakdown, and prediction factors
Israel Adesanya
"The Last Stylebender"
24-6-0
Islam Makhachev
28-1-0Physical Comparison
Israel Adesanya stands 193cm tall compared to Islam Makhachev's 178cm — a 15cm height advantage that could allow Adesanya to control range and use the jab effectively.
Record & Experience
Israel Adesanya brings a record of 24-6-0 across 30 professional bouts (80% win rate).Islam Makhachev enters with 28-1-0 from 29 fights (97% win rate).
Israel Adesanya has the experience edge with 30 bouts compared to 29 — that's 1 more fights under the bright lights, which can matter in championship rounds when fatigue sets in and composure is tested.
In terms of finishing power, Israel Adesanya is the more prolific finisher with a 67% stoppage rate compared to 18% for Islam Makhachev. Adesanya has shown the ability to end fights decisively.
Age & Career Stage
Islam Makhachev is the younger fighter at 34 compared to Israel Adesanya's 36 — a 2-year age gap. The younger fighter may have the edge in physical attributes, while Adesanya relies on veteran savvy and accumulated skill.
Key Factors
Adesanya's Path to Victory
- • Use height and reach to control distance
- • Target early stoppage with heavy hands (67% KO rate)
- • Lean on greater experience (30 bouts)
- • Establish rhythm early and dictate the pace
Makhachev's Path to Victory
- • Higher win percentage (97% vs 80%)
- • Apply pressure and force the fight on their terms