When fighters think about pressure grappling and dominance, there is one place on earth that instantly comes to mind: Dagestan.
This rugged republic in the North Caucasus of Russia has produced some of the most dominant fighters of our generation. Names like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam Makhachev, Zabit Magomedsharipov, and many more were forged here on the mats, in the mountains, and under the discipline of a culture built on toughness.
If you’re thinking about making this pilgrimage or sending your son for a “2–3 years and forget” journey, this is the guide for you.
What to train in Dagestan?
Training in Dagestan is all about high-level grappling.
The republic is known for its world-class wrestling instruction, making it an ideal destination to sharpen your skills in this area.
If your goal is to build a more well-rounded MMA game that includes striking or submissions, Dagestan might not be the best fit. In that case, a trip to the United States for MMA or to Brazil for BJJ would likely better suit your training needs.
Why train in Dagestan?
Training in Dagestan is the perfect combination of improving both your technique and mindset. Here’s what sets it apart:
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Best grappling in the world: Dagestan is home to the most feared wrestlers on the planet. Both Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling are taught from childhood, and deeply ingrained in the local culture. Training here means drinking straight from the source.
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Incredible discipline: Many gyms combine physical training with strong mental and religious discipline. This environment teaches you not only how to train harder, but also how to respect the process and push your limits beyond what you thought possible.
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Spartan conditions: Most training facilities are humble. No air conditioning. No fancy machines. Just sweat and repetition. The message is clear: to become your best, you don’t need much beyond your body, your mind, and committed training partners.
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The culture of combat: In Dagestan, fighting is not a hobby. It’s part of life. Everyone respects it and everyone does it. Few places on Earth can offer such a deeply rooted combat culture, and experiencing it firsthand is something you won’t forget.
Where to train in Dagestan (gyms and fees)
Most fighters from outside Dagestan can only access the region’s top gyms and wrestling facilities through personal connections. If you show up unannounced, chances are you’ll be turned away. That’s why you should never go without having everything arranged in advance.
The most reliable way to secure training in Dagestan is by booking a camp with a company that specializes in organizing trips for foreign fighters. These programs provide structured access to training, coaches, and local support.
While this approach may lack the flexibility of solo travel, it is without question the best, and often the only, way to ensure you’ll actually get to train once you arrive.
Option 1: Rise N'Glide Training Camps
Around $3,199 USD per person for a two-week camp. More information: www.risenglide.com
Rise N'Glide is the leading company offering wrestling-focused training camps in Makhachkala and our best recommendation for you. They were the first to design immersive experiences specifically for foreign athletes and have already hosted several successful editions with participants from all over the world.
Each camp lasts around 10 to 15 days and includes training sessions with experienced Dagestani coaches, shared accommodation, all meals, and transportation within Dagestan. In addition to training, the experience also includes cultural activities such as mountain hiking, horseback riding, and immersion in the local cuisine and lifestyle. Flights and health insurance are not included.
The camps are intense and physically demanding, so participants are expected to arrive with a solid base of conditioning. For that reason, Rise N’Glide only accepts applicants after a video interview to ensure they are a good fit for the program. Demand is high, and packages sell out quickly, so early planning is essential.
Option 2: Not available (for now)
Although we’d like to offer more options for your trip, there are currently no other companies we can confidently recommend. As of now, Rise N' Glide remains the only trustworthy and established provider offering structured training camps in Dagestan.
Where is Dagestan?
Dagestan is a republic within the Russian Federation, located in the North Caucasus, bordering the Caspian Sea to the east. The capital is Makhachkala, but many fighters train in small mountain towns like Kizilyurt, Kaspiysk, or the legendary Dagestanskiye Ogni.
It’s remote. It’s raw. And that’s the beauty of it.
How to get there?
There are very limited flights to Dagestan. To get to Makhachkala you will need to fly to Moscow or Istanbul first. From there, take a domestic flight to Makhachkala Uytash Airport (MCX).
Your organizing company will guide you on the best airlines, dates, and travel options once you book your training camp. Keep in mind that flight availability may be limited due to current travel restrictions related to Russia, so plan ahead and stay updated on international regulations.
Important notes to consider before your trip
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Be respectful of the culture: Dagestan is mostly Muslim and conservative. Be careful with jokes, behavior, and interactions with women. We strongly recommend researching the local customs before your trip. Respect their traditions, even if they differ from your own and you disagree with them.
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Dress modestly: Bright, flashy clothing is uncommon and not well received. Choose modest, neutral outfits that align with local standards to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
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Be ready for Russian instruction: English is rarely spoken. Expect coaches to give instructions in Russian and rely on visual cues to follow along. Learning a few basic Russian phrases can be very helpful.
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Respect privacy: Do not film or take photos without asking. Many locals, especially in rural areas, dislike being photographed or recorded without consent.
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Avoid alcohol and drugs: These substances are frowned upon or outright banned in many areas. Using them can get you into serious trouble. Stay clean throughout your stay.
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This is not a normal vacation: There is no party scene nor a lot of touristic attractions. You train. You rest. You learn.
Important notes for women fighters
Traveling to train in Dagestan as a woman comes with important limitations. Most training camps and local wrestling gyms in the region do not accept female participants, due to strong cultural and religious norms.
If you’re a woman interested in training in Dagestan, our honest recommendation is to change your plan and opt for another fight trip. As of now, opportunities for women in Dagestan are extremely limited, and we prefer to be transparent rather than offer false hope.
Gym etiquette
As in any gym around the world, proper etiquette is essential to make a good impression and enjoy your training experience. Here are a few important considerations for training in Dagestan:
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Modest gear: As mentioned before, Dagestani culture is conservative. That includes the mats. Avoid flashy or colorful outfits and stick to neutral singlets or training clothes that help you blend in.
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Don’t take videos or photos without permission: Some fighters are very private and may not want photos or training footage shared online. Always ask staff before taking pictures or videos.
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Go hard, but respectful: Dagestani wrestlers admire toughness, but they have little tolerance for trash talk or dirty tactics. Push yourself within the rules and stay humble.
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Be punctual: Showing up late is considered disrespectful and reflects poorly on your attitude. Punctuality is a sign of commitment and respect for your teammates and coaches.
- Respect hierarchy: Coaches are highly respected figures in Dagestan. Disrespect, insubordination, or inappropriate behavior can quickly lead to being removed from the camp. Always follow their instructions and show proper respect for their authority.
What to pack?
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Your own gear (wrestling shoes, headgear, mouthpiece and basic color singlets).
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Warm clothes (especially from October to March)
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Documents and receipts printed in paper.
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Russian roubles. Cash is still the predominant form of payment in the republic.
Is it safe?
While Dagestan is often misunderstood in media, most travelers on organized camps report feeling safe and welcome. Still, it’s best to avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar areas and always follow the guidance of your host team.
It is also important to travel covered by a healthy insurance. Given the intensity of the training and remoteness of the region, a comprehensive travel and medical insurance that covers injuries and emergency evacuation is a must to avoid any unforeseen complications.
Important: Russia is currently involved in an ongoing military conflict. While no direct attacks have been reported in Dagestan, the situation may affect travel logistics and overall safety. We strongly advise checking for the latest updates and government travel advisories before planning your trip. If possible, consider postponing until conditions are more stable.
What is the best time to go?
The best time to travel to Dagestan is between April and September, when the weather is mild and most outdoor activities like mountain hikes are easier to enjoy. Winters can be harsh and limit some cultural experiences.
What should be my grappling level to go to Dagestan?
While organizing companies may offer packages for all levels, we strongly believe you should have an advanced level of wrestling experience to truly benefit from a Dagestan immersion.
That means having competition aspirations or experience (in wrestling or MMA), several years of consistent training, and a strong foundation in all fundamental techniques.
We emphasize this because the trip requires a significant investment of both time and money. For a beginner or intermediate practitioner, it may be difficult to follow the instruction pace and fully appreciate the value of the training, making the experience less rewarding.
Final thoughts
A wrestling trip to Dagestan is certainly a dream for many grappling enthusiasts. While it’s not the easiest journey to plan, we hope this guide has helped you understand the steps needed to turn that dream into action.
Remember: training in Dagestan isn’t for everyone. But if you’re serious about leveling up as a fighter, there’s no place quite like it. It will test your discipline, your character, and your hunger to improve.