Alexander Volkanovski has revealed that he and Islam Makhachev have already discussed going on a rugged adventure together in Dagestan. The former UFC featherweight champion wants to explore the mountains with his former rival, hunt on horseback, camp outdoors and cook over a wood fire.
Volkanovski said the plan is not just a casual idea. He and Makhachev have already spoken about making the trip happen. Despite their fierce UFC rivalry, the two fighters have developed a strong mutual respect. Volkanovski is now confident they will eventually share the unique experience.
Alexander Volkanovski wants to go horseback hunting with Islam Makhachev in Dagestan
Alexander Volkanovski revealed that a trip to Dagestan with Islam Makhachev is something he genuinely wants to experience. The Australian fighter described a traditional outdoor adventure in the mountains, far away from the bright lights of the UFC.
The plan includes riding horses through the mountains while hunting for food. The pair would then spend the night camping in the wilderness and cook whatever they catch over an open wood fire.
Volkanovski spoke enthusiastically about the idea and made it clear that Makhachev is the person he would most like to share the experience with.
He said, “I love the idea of Islam Makhachev, doing it with him. We’ve already even chatted about it.
So I’m going to go to Dagestan, in the mountains, horseback hunting, hunting on horseback, catching whatever we catch and then cooking it, literally over a wood fire, camping out. This is something that we’ve already planned. We’ve already chatted about it. I’m telling you, it’s going to happen. We’re going to do it.”
The idea is particularly interesting because of the history between the two UFC stars.
Volkanovski and Makhachev fought twice for the UFC lightweight title. Their first meeting took place at UFC 284 in Perth in February 2023. Makhachev won by unanimous decision after a highly competitive fight.
They met again at UFC 294 in October 2023. This time, Makhachev stopped Volkanovski with a first-round head kick and punches.
Although Makhachev won both fights, Volkanovski earned widespread respect for repeatedly challenging one of the best fighters in the sport. Their rivalry eventually developed into mutual respect.
Now, Volkanovski appears interested in experiencing a completely different side of Makhachev’s world.
The Dagestan trip would also give the Australian an opportunity to experience the culture and rugged landscape associated with Makhachev’s home region. Rather than a luxury holiday, Volkanovski wants something much more traditional and adventurous.
The plan comes at an interesting stage of Volkanovski’s career. The Australian is preparing for another major UFC challenge while also exploring opportunities outside MMA.
Volkanovski recently attended the Sydney premiere of the live-action Street Fighter movie, in which he plays Joe. He has also spoken about how acting could open doors for him after his fighting career.
However, for now, the UFC remains his main focus. Volkanovski is scheduled to face Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi on October 24, 2026.