UFC Fighters Take On Grip Strength Challenge

Islam Makhachev's grip strength numbers might impress in the UFC lightweight division, but they pale next to what elite sumo wrestlers can produce.

Makhachev recorded 73 kilograms on a grip strength test, according to MMA Mania, a respectable mark for a fighter at 155 pounds. When rikishi from Japan's top sumo division took the same challenge, however, the results hit a different level.

Sumo Stars Max Out Grip Machine

Former ozeki Shodai pushed the machine to its 100-kilogram ceiling — roughly 220 pounds — effectively breaking the scale. The footage shows multiple sumo competitors surpassing typical MMA benchmarks, raising questions about how different combat sports develop functional strength.

MMA Mania's Tim Edwards hosted the grip comparison as part of a Thursday open thread that also touched on phobias, particularly claustrophobia in underwater and underground settings. The thread asked readers what frightens them most.

Makhachev remains in camp ahead of what some observers believe could be his final title defense before potential retirement.

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• MMA Mania — Open Thread, August 13, 2026: What scares you?