Makhachev outpoints Volkanovski to retain UFC lightweight title

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Islam Makhachev just passed his first test as the reigning Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight king after defending his belt against Alexander Volkanovski via a unanimous decision last February 12, 2023, held in Perth, Australia.

Makhachev not only was successful with his first title defense but also took down UFC’s no. 2 pound-for-pound fighter after previously submitting Charles Oliviera in the second round four months ago.

As everyone expected, the match kicked off with fireworks when both fighters immediately traded blows inside the octagon.

However, Makhachev was quick to put his imprints in the match in the last minute of the first round when he successfully took down Volkanovksi and attempted to finish the bout with a rear-naked choke.

Volkanovski showed patience and flaunted his ground defense when he was able to squeeze in between Makhachev’s hands which made his grip loose seconds before the first round concluded.

Another explosive round treated the fans present in Australia as Volkanovksi finally measured the perfect distance to land on Makhachev which resulted in early points.

Makhachev adjusted quickly to Volkanovski’s stand-up fight and took the fight to the ground once again, earning the nods of the judges in the closing seconds of the second period.

The third round went more technical as both champions failed to engage just like the first two rounds and took time picking their shots to avoid getting hit.

All the fans in attendance then got up to their feet in the fifth and final round when they began with wild swings.

Makhachev was the first one to strike courtesy of a snappy hook but Volkanovksi responded with a vicious straight punch that floored the Russian.

Despite Volkanovski’s efforts, all three judges gave the fight to Makhachev, 48-47, 48-47, 49-46.

With the win, Makhachev improved his UFC record to 24 wins and a defeat while Volkanovski dropped to 25 wins and two losses.