In a surprising turn of events at the UFC Performance Institute, popular streamer Adin Ross learned a painful lesson in grappling fundamentals from UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev during a recent live stream session.
The 24-year-old Ross, who previously trained with Sean O’Malley, attempted to showcase his grappling skills against the Dagestani champion. However, what started as an attempt by Ross to secure a RNC quickly turned into a demonstration of Makhachev’s superior technique.
Despite Makhachev’s prior technical advice, Ross made a crucial mistake by crossing his feet while attempting to control the champion’s back. The UFC star capitalized on this error immediately, trapping Ross’s foot between his legs and executing what fans identified as an ankle lock, causing the streamer to verbally submit.
“How are your legs so strong?” Ross exclaimed in visible discomfort as Makhachev maintained the submission with a characteristic smile.
The interaction sparked numerous responses from UFC fans on social media. “Man Islam told him exactly what NOT to do,” one fan commented, while another noted, “You’re not supposed to cross your legs from the back take. Lol he set him up for his own counter.”
The brief grappling exchange highlighted the vast skill gap between amateur enthusiasts and elite-level competitors, with one fan observing, “Islam is one of the best grapplers in MMA.”
Makhachev, who appeared to enjoy the playful session, is currently preparing for his upcoming title defense against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, where he aims to surpass his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy in the lightweight division.
