For the first time in UFC history, two current champions that are ranked #1 and #2 pound-for-pound fighters will meet to determine who is the UFC’s undisputed best. Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion will face featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284. Makhachev has consistently proven himself to be a top-level competitor, and his rise to the top of the division has been nothing short of remarkable. At UFC 280, Makhachev faced Charles Oliveira for the vacant UFC Lightweight Championship, and he won the bout and the title in the second round via arm-triangle choke after knocking down Oliveira with a punch. This victory solidified Makhachev as one of the top fighters in the lightweight division and cemented his status as a true champion.
If Makhachev were to defeat Volkanovski at UFC 284, it would be a defining moment in his career and solidify his legacy as one of the greatest lightweight fighters of all time. He would have defeated the best featherweight fighter in the world, and in doing so, would have shown that he is capable of competing and winning against the best fighters across weight classes. Makhachev’s striking and grappling skills are both incredibly well-rounded, making him a formidable opponent for anyone in the division. He has a strong wrestling background and is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which allows him to control the pace of the fight and dictate where it takes place. He also has a striking style that is both technical and powerful, which makes him a threat to knock out opponents. In addition to his skills as a fighter, Makhachev is also known for his sportsmanship and humility. He is well-respected by his peers and has a reputation for being a true professional.
Volkanovski has already established himself as one of the top fighters in the history of the featherweight division, with a professional record of 25-1. He has defeated some of the division’s biggest names, including Max Holloway, Chad Mendes, Brian Ortega, and Jose Aldo. But a victory over Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, would be the crowning achievement of his career. Makhachev will present a problem for Volkanovski as he is a well-rounded fighter with exceptional grappling skills and powerful striking as was seen in the Oliveira fight when he hurt him multiple times. He is also a difficult opponent to finish, having only been stopped once in his career, and is a much larger opponent than Volk.
A win over Makhachev would not only add the lightweight title to Volkanovski’s collection but would prove that he is one of the best fighters in the world, regardless of weight class. It would also solidify his place in the UFC’s Hall of Fame, cement his legacy as one of the greatest fighters to ever step into the octagon, joining Connor McGregor as the only featherweight to become a “double -champion,” and he would become the first Australian fighter to hold titles in two weight classes in the UFC.
Islam Makhachev’s legacy would be reinforced as one of the elite fighters in the lightweight division if he were to successfully defend his belt at UFC 284. He has already established himself as a top fighter in the division with a record of 23-1 and exceptional grappling skills. A successful title defense against Volkanovski, would further solidify his place as the best fighter in the lightweight division and pound-for-pound fighter and continue to build his reputation as a dominant champion. Thus, this fight is about making history. Champion vs. Champion, with two historic legacies on the line.
So who wins this fight? Many are predicting a quick fight because Islam Makhachev has dominated his competition with ease. Islam is noticeably taller and Volkanovski will need to go up in weight class. But Volkanovski has developed his game throughout the years to the point that he virtually has no weaknesses. His striking is precise and at 155lbs, will carry more power. Volk’s Greco-Roman wrestling and jiu-jitsu are at elite levels and will present many problems for Islam. But so far, few have been able to solve the riddle of the Dagastani sambo-style fighters. Khabib Nurmagovedov, who is Islam’s coach never lost once. Now Islam whose only loss came by a knockout 11 fights ago at UFC 192 at the hands of Adriano Martins, has been virtually as unstoppable as Khabib himself. Until someone figures out a way to stop the ferocious and suffocating Dagastani sambo-style wrestling, Islam Makhachev will continue to dominate the 155lbs lightweight division and it is why I see Islam coming out on top with his 12th consecutive win.
ROLLO”S PICK: Islam Makhachev in round 4 by TKO