UFC newcomer Islam Dulatov abandoned modeling career to chase dream

LAS VEGAS – Islam Dulatov found more joy in fighting inside a cage than in his easy career as a high fashion model.

Impressing UFC CEO Dana White and matchmakers at Dana White’s Contender Series 75, Dulatov (11-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) is now a UFC fighter after trading in his modeling career for a Venum fight kit.

Having modeled for top brands like Versace and Hugo Boss, Dulatov expressed his preference for fighting over modeling at a post-fight news conference. He admitted passing up bigger paychecks to be in the cage instead of in front of the camera.

Although being a fighter and a model poses risks, Dulatov is a fast finisher, ending 10 of his 11 pro fights in the first round. He recalled an instance where he showed up to a shoot with a bruised eye after a fight, receiving positive feedback from the casting crew.

For now, Dulatov has put modeling on the back burner to focus on his new career as a UFC welterweight with a reputation for vicious finishes.