Fedor And Makhachev Receive Sambo Ambassador Honors

Two Russian MMA champions collected official honors Tuesday recognizing their work representing sambo worldwide.

International Sambo Federation President Vasily Shestakov handed Fedor Emelianenko and Islam Makhachev symbolic statuettes in Tashkent on Nov. 5, per Sherdog. The presentation took place ahead of the 50th World Sambo Championships, which kick off Nov. 6 in the Uzbek capital and run through Nov. 8.

Combat Sambo Roots For Both Champions

Emelianenko won four world titles in combat sambo before his heavyweight MMA run. Makhachev captured a world championship in the same discipline before claiming UFC gold at lightweight. Emelianenko holds the distinction of being sambo's inaugural worldwide representative, a role he has filled for years. Makhachev earned his appointment to the post in February 2026.

Both men will attend this week's competition in guest-of-honor roles. Other former sambo world champions are also expected at the event.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Fedor Emelianenko, Islam Makhachev honored as sambo ambassadors