Muhammad Kafkas

Muhammad Kafkas (born December 10, 2005) is a Dagestani–German amateur mixed martial artist and former semi-professional K-1 kickboxer. He competes in the featherweight division and represents Fighttime Darmstadt, training under Coach Yakup (Jabal Fighters).

Kafkas is an undefeated amateur competitor and the reigning Nextreme MMA Featherweight Champion, widely regarded as a notable featherweight prospect on the European amateur MMA circuit.

Early life

KAFKAS was born as Muhammad Dzhanbatyrov in Dagestan, Russia, a region internationally recognized for its strong wrestling tradition. He began wrestling at an early age, which formed the foundation of his athletic development.

During his childhood, Kafkas and his family relocated to Germany as refugees. While adapting to a new cultural and social environment, he continued training in combat sports and expanded his skill set to include kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Kickboxing career

Before transitioning to mixed martial arts, Kafkas competed in K-1 kickboxing at a semi-professional level. Over the course of his kickboxing career, he compiled a record of 37 wins and 4 losses.

His kickboxing background contributed significantly to his striking fundamentals, distance management, and timing, which later translated into his MMA performances.

Mixed martial arts career

Amateur career

Kafkas made his amateur MMA debut in October 2023 at GMC 35, winning the bout via technical knockout in the first round. He subsequently competed across Europe in several regional promotions, including GMC, It’s Fighttime, Infinitus Fight Night, MAXIMUS Fight Night, Cage Warriors Lowlands, and Nextreme MMA.

In October 2025, Kafkas captured the Nextreme MMA Featherweight Championship by defeating Levent Karpuz in a very dominant fight via unanimous decision in the Nextreme MMA Final held in Aalsmeer, Netherlands.

As of October 2025, he holds an undefeated amateur record of 10 wins and 0 losses. With an undefeated amateur record and no further obstacles to test him, Kafkas is preparing to step into the professional ranks very soon.

Fighting style

Kafkas is known for a wrestling-based, control-oriented fighting style. He frequently utilizes takedowns to dictate the pace of his bouts, combining positional control with measured striking and developing submission attacks.
His approach emphasizes discipline, fight IQ, and risk management.

Championships and accomplishments

• Nextreme MMA Featherweight Champion (2025)

• Undefeated amateur MMA record (10–0)

• Former semi-professional K-1 kickboxer (37–4)

Amateur mixed martial arts record