UFC 280 set in motion the super-fight that finally took place on February 11 at the RAC Arena in Perth at UFC 284. One of the exhilarating fights of the year decided the fate of the lightweight division and the title for the best pound-for-pound fighter. When Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski squared off in the main event, they gave fans a fight to remember for ages. The PPV record-breaking fight stood on the fans’ expectations as both the fighters brought carnage to the Octagon. Despite the efforts of ‘The Great’ to resist the champion, the Dagestani fighter stood tall and cemented his legacy as he reigned supreme in their encounter. Thus, leaving the arena with UFC gold wrapped around his waist.
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Notably, the back-and-forth fight ended with the former combat sambo champion securing a victory on the points after the fight went the distance.
What happened in the main event fight at UFC 284?
Both the fighters initially gauged each other. However, it was who Volkanovski assumed the aggressor’s role.
The 25-1 record holder switched his stance to tackle the taller opponent. Volkanovski’s switching of stances kept Makhachev on the back foot. Therefore, he brought some big shouts which the crowd loved. The crowd, as expected, cheered every strike Volkanovski brought. Both the fighters exchanged a barrage of punches and after a knee, Makhachev grappled the featherweight champ, but the homegrown fighter couldn’t resist longer.
Thus, after a competitive round 1, the 34-year-old stuck to his switch stance. However, Volkanovski never found himself holding off longer and brought the fight back to his feet. The stats by the end of round 3 told a striking revelation as the Russian fighter also led on striking.
Volkanovski entered the championship rounds with high intensity. Makhachev, on the other hand, stuck to his tactic of preserving energy and judicially used the energy input. Contrary to his reputation, Volkanovski never gave the opportunity to get a decisive lock.
Notably, Makhachev dominated the majority of the fight, and the story remained the same throughout the final rounds. The most prominent aspect of the fight remained the prolific striking of Makhachev and the exhibit of strong takedown defense by the City Kickboxing team product. Thus, giving the fans a competitive fight.
How did the fans react to the finish?
I don't even care what the decision is, Volkanovski is that guy #UFC284
— The Filthy Casual (@MMAfilthycasual) February 12, 2023
What a BIG round for Bulkanovski! The highest of levels and that right hand that dropped Islam was perfectly timed. I still think Islam wins this but what a fight! #UFC284
— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) February 12, 2023
Ridiculous scorecard. I gave that to Volk easily. #UFC284
— Shanni ✨ (@shannisuissa) February 12, 2023
Volk deserves a rematch if he wants it. Have a great night everybody! See you on @anikflorianpod there’s much to talk about. That was a brilliant superfight.
— Kenny Florian (@kennyflorian) February 12, 2023
Respect 🤝 @MAKHACHEVMMA @alexvolkanovski
That was one of the most competitive fights in the history of the sport 🔥🔥🔥 #UFC284
— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) February 12, 2023
Alexander Volkanovski is the new lightweight champion.
— Dillon Danis (@dillondanis) February 12, 2023
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Was exactly as we said. Part of the reason we have the jobs that we have 😊
— Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) February 12, 2023
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What do you think of this fight that took place at UFC 284? Let us know in the comments.
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