Dwayne Johnson Sends an Inspiring Message to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Apprentice Islam Makhachev Before UFC 294 Win

Islam Makhachev’s lightweight title rematch against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294 saw the former post a thumping win in the first round. Makhachev, one of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s apprentices, let the match follow a similar pattern to his first encounter with the current UFC Featherweight Champion. At UFC 284, Volkanovski lost the match but presented a much better fight as Makhachev won it via decision.

Just ahead of his fight, the Russian mixed martial artist had received a special message from Dwayne Johnson. While the 51-year-old has never competed inside the octagon, he takes an active interest in the UFC.

What did Dwayne Johnson tell Islam Makhachev?

Though Johnson is predominantly known in the combat sports world for his association with pro wrestling via the WWE, as an entrepreneur, he has close ties with the UFC. The Rock’s Project Rock collection – a partnership between Under Armour and Dwayne Johnson – serves as the footwear sponsor in the Endeavor-owned company.

Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions recently sat down with the 31-year-old before his fight against Volkanovski. Makhachev spoke about his favorite moment during the fight. He picked up the time before the fight as the best moment. “This is my favorite moment when I come to the locker room, when I was beginning to do some stretching,” he said. Makhachev said that it helps him as all other work, including the weigh-ins and the weight cutting, is done and he can finally wait for the fight.

Reacting to Makhachev’s mindset, Johnson wrote, “Great insight into @islam_makhachev’s mindset on fight night. All the hard work to prepare is done and the moment is here to walk to that cage, move the crowd and lay it all on the line.” Johnson also had a word of encouragement for the current champion.

“… good luck tonight in your championship fight,” the 51-year-old said. Later, Makhachev used a left head kick to knock out the Featherweight Champion during the October 21 bout.

Read More: Dwayne Johnson Drops NSFW Reply to Rhea Ripley’s New Workout Video

This isn’t the first time Johnson has commented about a UFC player.

UFC athlete gains big with Dwayne Johnson’s $7 connection

A few months ago, the UFC world was abuzz with Themba Gorimbo’s fascinating story of getting a helping hand from Dwayne Johnson. The Brahma Bull got himself involved after the UFC athlete’s financial woes were posted online.

As details showed just $7 dollars left in Gorimbo’s account, Johnson recognized the plight and reached out to the 32-year-old. Years ago, Johnson, now $800 million rich, had just $7 left in his account. The commonality worked in Gorimbo’s favor as Johnson surprised him with a fully functional house.

The image of Gorimbo getting emotional as Johnson wrapped him in a bear hug will remain in the minds of many fans for years to come. Someday, maybe Johnson and Makhachev will share a similar moment.

But for now, tell us what you think about Johnson’s comment to the UFC lightweight champion.

Watch This Story: Fans Call for a Change as Rhea Ripley Is Spotted in a Rare Look on a Live Show