Volkanovski loses title fight in Perth thriller

By Simon Brunsdon and Emily Patterson

Australia’s Alexander Volkanovski has lost his best pound-for-pound stature after being defeated by Islam Makhachev via unanimous decision in the main event of UFC 284 in Perth.

Battling a size disadvantage, Volkanovski proved that if he got knocked down he could get back up.

However, Makhachev’s extra 10 centimetres and four kilograms made him too powerful in the end.

Volkanovski’s grappling defence was on full display – forcing the fight to go the full five rounds.

Makhachev willed to get Volkanovski to the canvas and wrestle, but Volkanovski worked hard to get to his feet to throw fists and knees.

In the first round, both fighters danced around each other before Volkanovski made the first charge with a big left punch.

As the fight dramatically flipped between periods of grappling and a flurry of hits, the advantage swung between both fighters.

To end the fourth round, Makhachev pinned Volkanovski down, holding him in position for almost three minutes.

Needing a big final round, Volkanovski finished stronger after dropping Makachev and pounding him on the canvas.

But on the scorecard, Makachev had it by unanimous decision, 48-47, 48-47, 49-46.

MORE TO COME.

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