Russian Star Dethrones UFC Pound-for-Pound King in Epic Showdown

Australia - Ekhbary News Agency

Russian Star Dethrones UFC Pound-for-Pound King in Epic Showdown

In a night that will be etched in the annals of mixed martial arts history, Russian powerhouse Islam Makhachev has cemented his status as the undisputed pound-for-pound king of the UFC. Makhachev successfully defended his lightweight championship in a grueling, five-round war against featherweight champion Alex Volkanovski in the main event of UFC 284, held in Perth, Australia, on Sunday.

Entering the Octagon as the reigning 155lb king, Makhachev, the formidable Dagestani grappler, faced his toughest challenge to date. Volkanovski, who had dominated the featherweight division, made a bold move up in weight class with the ambition of becoming a simultaneous two-division champion, a feat rarely achieved in the UFC.

The highly anticipated bout lived up to its billing, delivering a back-and-forth contest that tested both warriors to their absolute limits. Makhachev and Volkanovski showcased a remarkable display of skill, resilience, and heart. Volkanovski showcased his improved grappling and striking, while Makhachev utilized his signature suffocating wrestling and relentless pressure. Both fighters had moments of significant success, with Volkanovski even finding openings to threaten Makhachev on the feet and on the ground.

However, it was Makhachev's persistent aggression and dominant grappling that ultimately swayed the judges. His ability to control Volkanovski, secure takedowns, and maintain positional advantage throughout the rounds proved to be the deciding factor. After 25 minutes of intense action, the judges unanimously scored the bout in favor of the Russian champion, with scores of 48-47 across the board.

“Thank you Alex. It was a very good fight,” Makhachev said in his post-fight interview, acknowledging the immense challenge posed by Volkanovski. “I need some tough fights. I have to improve. I thought he’s going to be easy on the ground but this guy improved a lot.” This victory is widely expected to see Makhachev ascend to the coveted number one spot in the UFC's official pound-for-pound rankings, a testament to his dominance in the lightweight division and his ability to overcome elite competition.

This landmark event marked the first time in the UFC's 30-year history that the top two pound-for-pound ranked fighters met in the Octagon. "I show why I’m number one,” Makhachev declared emphatically. “They have to improve more. You like or you don’t like but I am the best fighter in the world right now.”

Volkanovski, fighting in front of a passionate home crowd, was gracious in defeat. "Obviously a lot of people are going to be happy with that because they never gave me a chance,” the Australian stated. “I knew I prepared properly, it was a fun fight. Congrats to Islam.” Despite the loss, Volkanovski proved his mettle, demonstrating why he is considered one of the greatest featherweights of all time and a top contender in any division he competes in.

With this win, Makhachev extends his incredible winning streak to 12 consecutive victories, further solidifying his legacy in the lightweight division. His reign at the top continues the Dagestani dominance in the UFC's lighter weight classes, following in the footsteps of his close friend and mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov. The performance at UFC 284 was not just a victory, but a statement of intent from Makhachev, who is determined to remain at the pinnacle of the sport for the foreseeable future.

Ekhbary News Agency