Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, is seeking a knockout at UFC 284.
Makhachev is set to face featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski in a special champion vs. champion matchup this Saturday, Feb. 11. The bout, set to take place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of the UFC’s most talented fighters. Fight fans in the United States can watch the fight and all other UFC 284 bouts live on Saturday night after ordering the UFC 284 PPV on ESPN+.
Makhachev, who boasts an impressive record of 23 wins and 1 loss in MMA and 12 wins and 1 loss in the UFC, is best known for his grappling skills, which have proven to be too much for his opponents to handle in the octagon. However, after an impressive striking effort against Charles Oliveira in his last fight, which included a knockdown before the eventual submission, Makhachev is now more confident than ever in his striking abilities.
Order UFC 284: Makhachev vs Volkanovski
In an interview with ESPN Deportes, Makhachev stated, “Honestly, I want to knock him out, because everybody says that Islam is a grappler or wrestler, but I want to show people my striking. He is a short guy, and I really believe I can knock him out.” Makhachev is determined to prove that he’s not just a one-trick pony and show the world the full range of his combat skills.
Volkanovski, who is 25-1 in MMA and 12-0 in the UFC, vows to surprise Makhachev with his strength and takedown defense. However, Makhachev believes that Volkanovski’s confidence comes from the fact that he has nothing to lose in this fight. “This is not his area,” Makhachev stated. “I’m from another division. This is not the same power. It’s not the same, and he’s going to understand this, but he wants to try because he’s not losing. If he loses, what is he going to lose? Just a belt with him, but he wants to try to jump and make some good money, make some pay-per-view money, but this is not his area.”
This showdown between two of the UFC’s top champions is sure to be a spectacle for UFC fans. Will Makhachev be able to showcase his striking skills and KO Volkanovski, or will Volkanovski be able to defend himself and take home the title? Order the UFC 284 PPV now to watch Makhachev vs. Volkanovski this Saturday.