Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski Prepare to Showcase their Unstoppable Power at UFC 284!

Introduction

Perth, Australia is the venue for the upcoming UFC 284, where fans will witness a historic match between Alexander Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev, who are Pound-for-Pound No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, and will battle for the Lightweight Championship of the World and No. 1 P4P ranking. This is a big challenge for Volkanovski, the Featherweight Champion, who aims to be the fifth fighter in UFC history to achieve champ-champ status in both the Featherweight and Lightweight divisions. In contrast, Islam Makhachev, the Lightweight Champion, wants to hold onto his title and become the World Pound-for-Pound No. 1.

Background on the Fighters

Volkanovski has an overall record of 25-1, and he has never lost in the UFC with a record of 12-0. He won the featherweight belt in 2019 and has been the champion since, having defended the title four times in dominating fashion. However, he will be at a disadvantage due to his smaller size compared to Islam Makhachev, standing at 5’6″ with a 71.5-inch reach.

The Fight: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Islam Makhachev

Makhachev, with an overall record of 23-1, has only lost once in the UFC in 2015. He is known as Khabib Nurmagomedov’s main training partner and the student of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, the latter of whom has passed away. Makhachev won the lightweight title against Charles Oliveira in his last fight, cementing himself as the next unstoppable Dagestani force in MMA. He is aiming to become the world’s number one fighter regardless of weight class, a goal that will be realized if he can defeat Volkanovski. Makhachev stands at 5’10” with a 70.5-inch reach and is known for his wrestling skills that suffocate opponents.

Why Alexander Volkanovski Will Win

In the lead-up to the match, Makhachev has repeatedly stated his intention to win by KO/TKO, indicating an improvement in his striking game that was on display in his previous fight. However, Volkanovski has better striking skills and can also chase submissions on the ground. Volkanovski will have to rely on his constantly evolving striking, agility, power, and unbreakable mindset to keep the fight standing and outstrike Makhachev for five rounds. However, he needs to be cautious and avoid being held down by Makhachev, who is known for his suffocating wrestling.

Why Islam Makhachev Will Win

The biggest challenge for Volkanovski is his size disadvantage, as moving up a weight class with such a discrepancy has not worked well in the past. On the other hand, Makhachev’s ultimate goal of being the World Pound-for-Pound No. 1, which he will achieve if he wins this match, will drive him to use his wrestling skills to control the fight and either strangle Volkanovski or beat him to a pulp. Makhachev’s striking game continues to improve, making it interesting to see how long he will decide to stand with Volkanovski before shooting for a takedown.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the upcoming UFC 284 match between Alexander Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev is a historic event that MMA fans cannot afford to miss. The fight will be a battle of skill, strength, and agility, with both fighters having their strengths and weaknesses. Whether Volkanovski can keep the fight standing and outstrike Makhachev or whether Makhachev can use his wrestling skills to control the fight and become the World Pound-for-Pound No. 1 will determine the outcome of this exciting match.

Read our next article: