UFC 284: Makhachev survives late knockdown to beat Volkanovski & become P4P king

ISLAM MAKHACHEV survived a late knockdown to become the pound-for-pound king of the UFC jungle in a thrilling showdown with Alexander Volkanovski.

The Russian wrecking machine saw off the featherweight champion’s challenge for his lightweight throne in front of a hostile crowd in Perth, Australia in the main event of UFC 284 early this morning.

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Makhachev retained his title with a unanimous decision victory over the Aussie, with the judges scoring the fight 48-47, 48-47, 49-46 in his favour.

The Dagestani destroyer’s victory over Volkanovski on enemy territory registered his first defence of the lightweight title he claimed last October and made him the undisputed best MMA fighter on the planet.

Volk started the mouthwatering showdown happy to operate on the outside and feint his way in as chants of “Ole, ole, ole” ring throughout the RAC Arena.

The challenger utilised lots of stance switches early Volk to try and overload the mind of Makhachev.

And they set up a good right hand lands that sent the champion backwards and drew a big reaction from the crowd. Makhachev backwards.

But his lack of respect for Makhachev’s striking prowess soon came to the fore when he got dropped in a wild exchange, although he did manage to quickly return to his feet.

He quick;y found himself on the ground after being pressed up against the cage and ended the round fighting off a neck crank attempt after some beautiful back control from Makhachev.

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