In the competitive landscape of UFC, many lackluster fighters come and go, often being cut from the roster due to their performance and lack of enthusiasm. A recent example is Dagestani-English fighter Muhammad Mokaev, among many others who have faced similar fates. However, one name that stands out is former welterweight contender Ismail Naurdiev, who was cut from the UFC after just four fights.

Despite his short and unremarkable run in the promotion, ‘The Austrian Wonderboy’ recently found his way back to the octagon, which is surprising, especially considering someone like the undefeated Mokaev, who has done everything possible to persuade Dana White to re-sign him. Yet, White and his team chose to bring back Ismail Naurdiev, raising many questions that intrigue fans about this 28-year-old prospect, particularly regarding his origins. So, without wasting any time, let’s dive into the early life of Naurdiev.

Is Ismail Naurdiev from Chechnya? Ethnicity, and birthplace

Dagestan stands on equal footing with another Russian state, Chechnya, and it is no less significant in the combat sports industry. The name that immediately springs to mind when talking about Chechnya is UFC-ranked #12 middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev. Now, with the latest addition to the UFC welterweight division, another prospect is ready to make a fresh start in the promotion: Ismail Naurdiev, who was born in Grozny, Chechnya, Russia.

When asked about his family’s choice to relocate to Austria in a candid interview, Naurdiev recalled, “I was 9 years old when my parents moved to Austria. They wanted to go and live there so that I could have a better life, get an education, and be safe. And now we have been here for so many years, and everything is going great.” To learn more about Ismail Naurdiev’s motivations for this move, continue reading the article.

Why did Ismail Naurdiev move to Austria? His nationality and early life

Ismail Naurdiev’s family moved to Austria due to the Second Chechen War. When the capital city of Chechnya, Grozny, was torn apart, Naurdiev and his family left the country when he was just 9 years old. They settled in Austria, a story that parallels that of the promotion’s newcomer Islam Dulatov, another fighter who was a victim of the Second Chechen War and decided to move to Germany.

In an earlier interview, ‘The Austrian Wonderboy’ discussed his situation, mentioning that he moved to Austria, one of the six countries where Chechens have dispersed. Despite missing his homeland, he is very grateful to Austria for providing him with a fresh start. He stated, “Yes, [I have] only Austrian [citizenship]. I speak to the UFC only to fight under the flag of Austria because this country has given me everything. I give them credit. I feel good in Austria, but I do not forget my roots.”

Now, all eyes are on the upcoming UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, where Ismail Naurdiev will seek to reset his career when he squares off against Bruno Silva. Who will you be rooting for Naurdiev or Silva? Drop your opinion below.