MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko has called for Craig Jones to issue a formal apology following disparaging remarks made about Sambo, after Islam Makhachev‘s dominant UFC welterweight championship victory.
Speaking in a recent interview, Emelianenko addressed Makhachev‘s impressive performance in capturing his second UFC title, praising the Dagestani MMA star’s complete control throughout the bout. The Russian was particularly impressed by how Makhachev made his opponent appear helpless, creating situations where “he simply didn’t want to compete” and “couldn’t compete.”
However, Emelianenko‘s comments took a pointed turn when discussing the role of Sambo in Makhachev‘s success.
“Islam glorifies Sambo,” Emelianenko stated, emphasizing that the champion himself has credited the martial art in interviews. The legendary MMA star then addressed Jones directly, saying, “I think he taught a good lesson not to say bad things in Sambo.”
The controversy stems from Jones who has repeatedly joked about Sambo in the past. Emelianenko didn’t mince words about the Australian’s stance, suggesting that Makhachev‘s victory served as definitive proof of Sambo’s effectiveness in MMA competition.
“Sambo has already proven that it is one of the best sports for MMA,” Emelianenko declared. He went further, stating that Jones “probably should offer a deep apology, since his words were not confirmed.”
The timing of Emelianenko‘s comments is significant, coming after Makhachev‘s historic achievement of becoming a two-division champion. The match showcased Makhachev‘s Sambo-based grappling prowess, with the champion maintaining an astonishing 20 minutes of control time against an opponent competing at his natural weight.
Emelianenko, himself a Sambo world champion before transitioning to MMA, has long been an ambassador for the Russian martial art.
When asked about Makhachev‘s striking performance, Emelianenko praised his “sense of distance” and ability to enter the clinch effectively though he suggested continued work in the stand-up department. Regarding future opponents and potential moves to even higher weight classes, the cautious legend advised patience:
“Islam himself will make the decision.”
Whether Jones will respond to Emelianenko‘s demand remains to be seen, but the Russian icon has made his position clear: Makhachev‘s success has vindicated Sambo’s place among elite martial arts.
