Former model Islam Dulatov steps into the UFC cage in Abu Dhabi. He arrives as one of six brothers, a family that introduced him to mixed‑martial‑arts training.
At 27, Dulatov has swapped high‑fashion catwalks for the UFC’s bright lights. Once a top male model for Versace and Gucci, he now boasts a record of 12 wins from 13 bouts, including eight knockouts and four submissions. His rapid rise attracted the attention of UFC president Dana White, who praised his knockout power. The signature first‑round KO that propelled him forward came on ESPN’s Contender Series, a platform that fast‑tracks fighters to the UFC roster.
From Runway to Octagon
Dulatov’s journey began far from the spotlight of Milan. Born in Chechnya and arriving in Germany as a nine‑year‑old refugee, he and his five brothers took up MMA training together. His older brother Djibril was discovered by an agency and modeled for high‑end brands, paving the way for Islam’s own fashion career. Islam signed an exclusive contract with Versace and was listed by British Vogue among the top 10 male models of 2018, a testament to his striking looks before he turned to combat sport.
“The difference between me and other fighters who come already from rich families is that I made my parents rich. When I came to Germany, I was a refugee. I had nothing,” Dulatov told The National. He recalled feeling embarrassed growing up in Germany, a sentiment that fuels his drive. His sole defeat came on debut after a botched weight cut, but a subsequent first‑round KO on the ESPN Contender Series caught the eye of UFC boss Dana White and fast‑tracked him into the welterweight division.
Big Night at Etihad Arena
On Saturday, Dulatov will face Brazilian Wellington Turman at Etihad Arena in what the UFC calls Fight Night 282. Etihad Arena, a premier sports venue in Abu Dhabi, regularly hosts high‑profile UFC events. The bout marks Dulatov’s first appearance on a UFC main card, a milestone he described as a “big opportunity.”
“I’m very excited for this one because I’ve never fought before on the main card, this is my first time,” Dulatov said.
— Islam Dulatov, UFC fighter
He added that he hopes to deliver a knockout for the fans, saying, “I love the sport and I want to get that belt.” Turman, aware of Dulatov’s first‑round finish rate, says his goal is to survive past the opening minutes and test his opponent’s stamina. Dulatov enters the fight as a huge favourite, riding a streak of first‑round victories that has made him a rising star in the organization.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Islam Dulatov?
Islam Dulatov is a 27-year-old former Versace and Gucci runway star who is now a UFC rising talent.
What is Islam Dulatov's fighting record?
Islam Dulatov has a record of 12 wins from 13 bouts, including eight knockouts and four submissions.
Where is Islam Dulatov from?
Islam Dulatov was born in Chechnya and arrived in Germany as a nine-year-old refugee.
Who is Islam Dulatov's next opponent?
Islam Dulatov's next opponent is Brazilian Wellington Turman at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
What is Islam Dulatov's background?
Islam Dulatov comes from a family of six brothers who introduced him to mixed-martial-arts training, and he previously worked as a model for high-end brands like Versace and Gucci.
