Chechen MMA fighter Dzhihad Yunusov killed in Ukraine war

Chechen mixed martial artist Dzhihad Yunusov has died while serving in the Russian military during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to reports.

Yunusov, who compiled a 19-8 professional record and last competed under the ACA banner in 2024, joined the Russian army following his expulsion from Akhmat Fight Club in May. The gym is owned by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov.

From controversy to conscription

The fighter's dismissal from Akhmat stemmed from an incident in which video footage allegedly showed him tossing coffee at an elderly neighbor and attacking her daughter when she stepped in. Per Sherdog's initial reporting, the dispute began over a hallway security camera that captured Yunusov's door — he had asked the neighbor to adjust it, she declined, and the confrontation escalated from there.

Yunusov was reportedly meant to serve away from active combat zones when he first enlisted. However, he was sent to the front lines after clashing with military leadership, according to the same report.

No further details on the circumstances of his death have been released.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Report: Chechen MMA fighter Dzhihad Yunusov killed in Russia-Ukraine war