Islam Makhachev grabbed attention after UFC 314 at Miami’s Kaseya Center on April 12, 2025. He congratulated Alexander Volkanovski for defeating Diego Lopes by unanimous decision to claim the vacant featherweight belt. Makhachev, the lightweight champion, shared his respect on X, spotlighting Volkanovski’s return from two tough losses.
Makhachev’s tribute
Volkanovski outworked Lopes over five rounds, landing precise strikes to secure the judges’ nod. His record rose to 27 wins and 4 losses, while Lopes’s fell to 26 wins and 7 losses.
Makhachev quickly posted on X.
“Congrats @alexvolkanovski great comeback! Real champ in sport and life,” he wrote.
Congrats @alexvolkanovski great comeback! Real champ in sport and life 🏆
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) April 13, 2025
Volkanovski replied on X, saying, “Thank you brother.”
The gesture underscored their mutual respect, forged through two grueling fights. At UFC 284 in 2023, Makhachev edged a close decision. Their UFC 294 rematch saw Makhachev score a first-round head-kick knockout.
Volkanovski’s performance stood out. At 36, he became the first fighter under 155 pounds to capture a UFC belt over age 35, breaking a two-fight skid. Makhachev’s praise reflected their shared battles.
Lopes tested Volkanovski, cutting his eye with a right hand in round two, but Volkanovski’s relentless pace prevailed. Fans erupted as he silenced critics who doubted his durability.
Volkanovski’s victory opens doors to rematches with Topuria or bouts against Movsar Evloev. Makhachev, coming off a UFC 311 win over Renato Moicano, targets lightweight defenses against Justin Gaethje or Ilia Topuria. Their respect might fuel talk of a third fight someday.
