Makhachev Jokes His Taekwondo Black Belt Needs Checking

Islam Makhachev said his new taekwondo black belt might not pass inspection.

The UFC welterweight champion received the promotion from Seifulla Magomedov, a four-time European taekwondo champion who coaches the Dagestani fighter. But Makhachev told MMA Junkie the credential is suspect. "This belt we have to check," he said. "One of my coaches is Russian Olympic team coach. He just give me. I call this gift. Not something I really deserve."

Makhachev's "Check The Belt" Line Returns

The phrase carries weight in MMA circles after Makhachev used it to question the credibility of jiu-jitsu black belts, arguing too many get handed out without proper vetting. Now he has turned the same skepticism on himself.

Makhachev holds a 28-1 record and made history with four lightweight title defenses before moving to welterweight last year, where he stopped Jack Della Maddalena to claim the 170-pound strap. He makes his first defense of that belt against Ian Garry on Aug. 15 at UFC 330 in Philadelphia.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Islam Makhachev jokes his taekwondo black belt needs to be ‘checked’