Islam Makhachev protests Russia being banned from Paris Olympics over "dirty politics"
UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has voiced his disapproval of Russia's ban from the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Russian athlete took to Instagram to express his frustration over the decision, labeling it "dirty politics."
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) imposed the ban on Russia and Belarus in Feb. 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine, citing a violation of the Olympic Truce. While athletes from both countries are allowed to compete as neutrals, they are unable to represent their nations on the global stage.
Makhachev, who hails from Dagestan, Russia, expressed sympathy for athletes who have dedicated their lives to Olympic dreams only to be denied the opportunity to compete due to political circumstances. He criticized the "double standards" of countries involved in the decision, suggesting it was unfair to punish athletes for actions beyond their control.
Taking to his Instagram, he wrote:
"I enjoyed watching wrestling these days. It's a pity that dirty politics got into such a courageous sport. People who gave their whole lives to this sport and got a chance to compete at the Olympic Games are forced to stay at home and watch the Olympics on TV. The double standards of dirty countries deprive our athletes of what they have been striving for all their lives."
Check out Islam Makhachev's post below:
Islam makhachev had previously condemned the Paris Olympics opening ceremony
Islam Makhachev also strongly criticized the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, labeling it "disgusting" and a "dark stain" on the prestigious event.
The Russian fighter expressed his disappointment during an interview with Russian media outlet Ushatayka. Makhachev admitted to watching highlights of the ceremony and found its content deeply offensive, claiming it disrespected all religions and human values.
"To be honest, I watched some highlights of the Olympics opening ceremony. It was disgusting. This is disrespect for all religions, for all human values, in general. Honestly, I even planned to go to the Olympics, but after what I saw, I don't want to go there."
Check out Islam Makhachev's comment below: