Islam Makhachev defeated Alexander Volkanovski via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) to retain the lightweight belt at UFC 284 on Saturday night in Perth, Australia. Here’s what you need to know:
In a back-and-forth fight, Makhachev outlasted his opponent after multiple takedowns and showing an improved standup game. Volkanovski landed more significant strikes in the matchup —including dropping him late in the bout — but it wasn’t enough to take the matchup on the scorecards.
Makhachev (24-1), a close friend and training partner of legendary fighter Khabib Nurmagomedov, has now won 12 straight bouts.
The victory ensures he will now be named the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
Volkanovski (25-2) suffered his first loss since May 2013 and his first since joining the UFC in November 2016. He was riding a 22-fight win streak entering the fight.
What does this mean for Makhachev’s legacy?
Makhachev in a matter of days will become the new pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter in the world, joining a status once shared by Nurmagomedov. Defeating Volkanovski — who previously had that honor — will go a long way in his career legacy. Makhachev possesses one of the most lethal ground games in the UFC today but that wasn’t the difference maker on Saturday night. In fact, I was most impressed with his improved striking ability. If he continues to grow in the standup game there are few fighters, if any, that have a chance against Makhachev. — Rosenstein
What’s next for Makhachev and Volkanovski?
There are a lot of intriguing matchups at lightweight, but the winner of Charles Oliveira versus Beneil Dariush, which is rumored to be an upcoming bout, makes sense for his next title defense. Makhachev fought Oliveira once prior, which was close early on before the Dagestani took control on the mat. Dariush is on an eight-fight win streak against some of the toughest guys in the division. Both would be fun matchups but I would pick Makhachev in each of them. — Rosenstein
(Photo: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)