Islam Makhachev Catches a Massive Fish to Start Fight Week (Video)

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by MMA Pros Pick (@mma.pros.pick)

While most professional fighters spend their final days before a massive fight hiding away in dark gyms, Islam Makhachev decided to do something completely different. Just days before he steps into the cage to defend his world title against Ireland's Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330, the champion went viral online for a wild outdoor adventure. While relaxing on a fishing boat, he hooked and reeled in a massive stingray.

A video shared online shows Makhachev in a serious, muscle-straining battle with his fishing rod. The sea creature was so heavy that his team originally thought he had hooked a shark. The champion had to pull with all his strength to bring the giant ray to the surface, even joking that his arms would be too sore for his next wrestling practice.

For Makhachev, spending time in nature is not a distraction from his job. He believes that getting away from the heavy stress of fighting during the weekend is the best way to clear his head. He says it helps him return to his gym on Monday feeling completely refreshed and happy.

This cool, calm attitude is exactly what makes Makhachev so dangerous. While his opponent, Ian Garry, has been talking a lot of trash in the media to build up hype, the champion seems totally relaxed. If his peaceful time on the water is any sign of his mental state, the champion is fully rested and ready for whatever happens in the Octagon this weekend.