Undefeated UFC women's prospect predicts Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski
Islam Makhachev will attempt to defend his UFC lightweight title for the first time at UFC 284 against Alexander Volkanovski. The two best pound-for-pound fighters in the promotion will go head-to-head, with both men appearing supremely confident ahead of the bout.
Tatiana Suarez, who will be making her comeback to the UFC in February after a series of injuries, was asked to break down the matchup during an interview with Helen Yee.
The Californian stated that Makhachev's size advantage and superior grappling skills will give him the upper hand:
"I think Islam's grappling is so superior, and he'll be able to get Volkanovski down... I think he's a master on top. I think Islam is a big 155-pounder, I don't know how big Alex is. I think Islam probably walks around at 180 maybe. I don't know, we'll see, but I think [Islam's] grappling will get the job done."
Watch the interview below:
Tatiana Suarez will be fighting against Montana De La Rosa on February 25 after more than three years since her last UFC fight. Prior to her string of injuries, she was touted as a future title challenger as she used her grappling prowess to dominate her opposition.
Being a two-time bronze medalist at the Wrestling World Championships, Suarez will no doubt be aware of just how phenomenal Islam Makhachev's grappling is, hence why she picked him to defend his title against Alexander Vokanovski.
Makhacev's impressive performance over Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 surprised many. The Dagestani was able to secure the title with relative ease against 'Do Bronx', who had demolished his previous three opponents.
The UFC lightweight champion is currently a -355 favorite and many believe that he will extend his unbeaten streak to 12.
Dustin Poirier wants to "test his hands" with Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev questioned the Brazilian jiu-jitsu credentials of Dustin Poirier in an interview with Daniel Cormier several months ago. While critiquing Poirier's ground game, the UFC lightweight champion was reminded that Poirier held a black belt in 'the gentle art', which prompted Makhachev to say this:
"Black belt? Who gave him [the black belt]? We have to check this."
Watch the video below:
Dustin Poirier then submitted Michael Chandler in his next fight at UFC 281, and responded to Islam Makhachev's criticism in his post-fight interview.
During a recent interview with BroBible, 'The Diamond' was asked if he would be eager to 'test' his BJJ skills against Makhachev's grappling. Poirier said the following:
"No, I'd like to test my hands [against Makhachev]. But we'll see what happens."
Watch the video below: