UFC 280: Islam Makhachev and Belal Muhammad visit children's hospital in Dubai

UFC stars Islam Makhachev and Belal Muhammad took time out from preparations for next week’s UFC 280 with a visit on Tuesday to Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital in Dubai.

Makhachev, a frequent visitor to the UAE, headlines the Abu Dhabi event at Etihad Arena on October 22, when he takes on Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title. American Muhammad, meanwhile, faces fellow welterweight contender Sean Brady. Makhachev and Muhammad have been training for UFC 280 at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex.

On Tuesday, the athletes were joined by various members of their team – UFC fighters Zubaira Tukhugov, Abubakar Nurmagomedov and Umar Nurmagomedov, and Bellator competitor Usman Nurmagomedov – at Al Jalila Children’s, where they met young patients on the in-patient and dialysis ward.

During the visit, the fighters posed for pictures with the children, aged five to 11, and gifted signed boxing gloves and merchandise. The visit was organised through Al Jalila Foundation’s #AJFSports Ambassador programme, which promotes philanthropy in sports.

Speaking afterwards, Makhachev said: “We just came to the hospital to see these kids because we want to make them happy. They’re sick, so we can give the kids some love, some gifts. And I think they’re going to watch our fights. I hope they’re going to have a quick recovery and come back home soon.”

Makhachev said the visit helped place into perspective next week’s title match-up in Abu Dhabi, the most high-profile bout of his 23-fight professional career.

“Of course, the kids have more important fights. My fight is not so important. If we just help them one per cent, make them happy – that’s our mission.”

Muhammad, who like his teammates shared jokes with all the children, said: