Islam Makhachev has not fought so far this year, with the UFC two-weight champion taking time away from training camps.
During that period, he has been travelling across Europe, recently spending time in France before confirming he had arrived in Italy.
However, his trip took an unexpected turn, with the Dagestani fighter sharing details of an incident that quickly drew attention online.
Islam Makhachev reveals thieves stole signed boots gifted by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Makhachev took to Instagram to reveal he had been robbed while in Italy, with thieves carrying away a specific item from his belongings.
According to the champion, the main stolen item was a pair of boots gifted to him by Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The boots carried a personal message and signature from the Georgian star, making them a unique possession for the UFC champion.
Makhachev added that other things were left behind, including his passport, wallet and even his prayer mat, highlighting the unusual nature of the incident.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia link adds unusual twist given Ilia Topuria rivalry
The stolen gift also carries an added layer of intrigue given Makhachev’s recent exchanges with Ilia Topuria.
Kvaratskhelia is Georgia’s biggest football star and one of the most prominent players in world football, sharing nationality with Makhachev’s rival.
That connection makes the situation slightly ironic, with the champion having recently taken aim at Topuria while receiving a gift from one of his country’s most recognisable figures.
‘El Matador’ said he hopes to fight Makhachev at the end of the year and that bout could leave the PSG winger in a tough spot.
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