Islam Makhachev gives honest opinion about outcome of UFC 284 clash with Alexander Volkanovski after rewatching fight
As UFC 284 came to an end, an extremely close fight between two elite mixed martial artists has the world talking, and Islam Makhachev has given his initial thoughts on how he believes the clash against Alexander Volkanovski played out.
The fight between the lightweight and featherweight champions was a highly-anticipated affair, with the pair having a combined 33-win streak, but that was arguably not the most interesting part of the matchup. For the first time in UFC history, the No.1 and No.2 pound-for-pound fighters met in the cage at their very best.
Hours after the dust settled on the UFC 284 main event, Islam Makhachev spent time rewatching the five-round war and gave his verdict on how he believes it unfolded.
"Just watched the tape, and have to be fair, out of 25 minutes Volk got the last 1 minute!"
Just watched the tape, and have to be fair, out of 25 minutes Volk got last 1 minute!
Makhachev arguably impressed the world by showcasing just how well-versed he is in all areas of mixed martial arts, primarily his ever-improving ability in the standup game.
While it's unclear as to who he'll face at present, the Dagestani will likely put his title on the line as he attempts to make his second successful defense later this year, with a number of lightweights being viable contenders for the shot.
Although Charles Oliveira will need to get back into the winners' column before staking a claim at the champion, Beneil Dariush seems like a great challenge for Makhachev and could well be next in line should he continue to put on standout performances.
How close was the Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski clash?
Elite fighters Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski met in the octagon on Saturday night and delivered an extremely close matchup that could have gone either way.
The night ended with the grappler continuing his reign as lightweight king, which would likely see 'The Great' return to featherweight to defend his throne against Yair Rodriguez next.
Despite earning a unanimous decision victory over Volkanovski, the Russian champion had to fight hard for the entire five rounds, with certain sections of the fanbase calling the outcome a "robbery."
Judges Ben Cartlidge and David Lethaby had the bout scored 48-47 in favor of Islam Makhachev, while the seasoned Derek Cleary claimed that the wrestler won four of the five rounds.
The full #UFC284 main event scorecards 📝 https://t.co/zCx1YmqcFb