Debate surrounds Alexander Volkanovski’s loss to reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev with some in the UFC world claiming the Aussie was judged unfairly.
Volkanovski was unable to overcome the Russian powerhouse, being defeated by unanimous decision in the main event of UFC 284 in Perth.
The fight went the full five rounds as Volkanovski refused to submit under his opponent’s weight.
READ MORE: Aussies ’embarrassed’ in record defeat in India
READ MORE: ‘Mixed messages’ claim follows Aussie shambles
READ MORE: Warner backed to retain spot despite India woes
Makachev was ultimately declared the winner via unanimous decision, winning 48-47, 48-47, 49-46.
But the call has sparked backlash with some believing Volkanovski was robbed of victory.
Both fighters played to their strengths as Makhachev worked Volkanovski to the canvas to wrestle, while Volkanovski battled to get to his feet and counter with fists and knees.
While he may have been disadvantaged in size, Volkanovski showed immense endurance to jerk out of chokeholds, keeping himself in the contest.
Volkanovski ultimately finished stronger in the fifth round, dropping Makachev and pounding him on the canvas.
Speaking out on social media, onlookers were quick to call out the judge who scored the fight 49-46 in Makhachev’s favour.
UFC star Nate Diaz tweeted: “Yeah right Islam got his ass whooped”.
Addressing the media afterwards, Makhachev was quizzed about Diaz’s comment.
“Honestly, I don’t want to talk to you about this guy,” he said.
“I don’t know what he said. Maybe he was smoking something and then watched the fight.
Unfazed by the doubters, Makhachev announced himself as second to none in the octagon.
“It doesn’t matter how – I won. Now I am not just champion, I am the best fighter in the world,” he said.
“Now people are going to call me not just champ, but best fighter in the world.
“This is my dream … I am very happy.”
During Volkanovski’s press conference, the 34-year-old said he overheard that Makhachev had told his corner he had lost after the fifth round and that he was ready to organise a rematch.
“That is not true,” Makhachev said when asked about it.
“I didn’t say I was a loser. I knew in my mind when the fight was finished, I knew minimum, I won three rounds.
“I didn’t say I lost.”
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
Where are they now? The Essendon 34 a decade on from the saga that defined them
For all the latest Sports News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
