Islam Makhachev edges Alexander Volkanovski

To many’s shock, Alexander Volkanovski gave Islam Makhachev by far his hardest battle in current reminiscence.

Though profitable in defending his UFC light-weight title, Makhachev needed to go to nice lengths to maintain his belt, and even then, many individuals nonetheless assume Volkanovski did sufficient to get the victory.

Again at UFC 284 in February, Makhachev and Volkanovski placed on among the finest championship fights in UFC historical past. The 2 went toe to toe in a extremely aggressive matchup that went to the judges’ scorecards. In the long run, Makhachev defeated Volkanovski in a unanimous choice by scores of 48-47, 48-47 and 49-46.

You’ll be able to watch the replay of the battle within the video above.

Makhachev returns on Oct. 21 in the principle occasion of UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi. He takes on Charles Oliveira, the person who Makhachev took the light-weight belt from, in a rematch.

Makhachev (24-1 MMA, 13-1 UFC) hasn’t fought since defeating Volkanovski in February. Previous to that, he had submitted Oliveira in October 2022 additionally in Abu Dhabi. Oliveira (34-9 MMA, 22-9 UFC) has additionally fought as soon as because the Makhachev battle. In June, the Brazilian made fast work of high contender Beneil Dariush at UFC 289.

For extra on the cardboard, go to MMA Junkie’s occasion hub for UFC 294.