Islam Dulatov
Islam Dulatov is a German mixed martial artist and professional fashion model of Chechen descent. He is currently competing in the welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Background
Dulatov was born in the small town of Urus-Martan, Chechnya, Russia. He grew up in a large family with six brothers, being the middle child. During the turbulent years of the Second Chechen War, Dulatov's family frequently moved across the region, including to Shali and Grozny, in search of safety. Due to the ongoing insurgency, the Dulatov brothers had little opportunity to attend school. Instead, they spent much of their time outdoors, engaging in bodyweight workouts and helping their parents by unloading trucks to support the family financially.In December 2007, the family relocated to Germany as war refugees. Initially, Dulatov and his brothers struggled to adapt to their new environment, particularly in school, where the language barrier posed a significant challenge. However, participating in sports and training in mixed martial arts played a crucial role in helping them adjust. It not only aided their socialization but also gave them the confidence to stand up for themselves during confrontations and fights.
Career
Professional fashion model
Dulatov's eldest brother, Djibril, who had established a successful career as a model for prestigious fashion brands such as Lavin, Gucci and Alexander McQueen, played a pivotal role in shaping the paths of his younger brothers. When his brothers Islam, Sulumbek, and Tamerlan turned 18, Djibril introduced them to the world of modeling, effectively influencing their decision to pursue careers in fashion. Despite their modeling careers, the brothers chose to maintain their dedication to mixed martial arts, continuing their rigorous training and competing in the sport. This decision led them to forgo higher education, focusing instead in both modeling and MMA.Dulatov walked for fashion designers such as Gucci, Lavin and Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss and appeared in the British Vogue as one of the top 10 male models in 2018. He signed an exclusive contract with Versace, walking in fashion Week six times under their banner. Additionally, Dulatov has posed for notable magazines such as GQ and many others.
Mixed martial arts
Early career
After compiling an amateur record of 4–1, Dulatov started his professional MMA career in 2019. He amassed a professional record of 10–1 prior participating in Dana White's Contender Series.Dana White's Contender Series
Dulatov appeared on the eighth season of Dana White's Contender Series on October 8, 2024, against Vanilto Antunes who was the former champion of Legacy Fighting Alliance at Dana White's Contender Series 75. He won the fight in round one via knockout. With the win, Dulatov was offered a UFC contract.Ultimate Fighting Championship
Dulatov was scheduled to face Adam Fugitt on February 22, 2025, at UFC Fight Night 252. However, he was forced to withdraw due to a serious injury and was replaced by Billy Goff. In turn, the bout was scrapped during fight week as Fugitt pulled out due to injury.The bout between Dulatov and Fugitt was rescheduled and took place on July 19, 2025, at UFC 318. Dulatov won the fight by knockout in the first round. This fight earned him his first Performance of the Night award.