In a stunning display of skill and power, Islam Makhachev successfully defended his 155-pound title against Alexander Volkanovski with a first-round knockout at UFC 294. The event took place on October 21, 2023, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and was broadcasted live on ESPN+ PPV.
Makhachev, the undisputed lightweight champion, came into the fight with a more aggressive approach, keeping Volkanovski on the defensive. Although Volkanovski was able to fend off Makhachev’s initial takedown attempt, he was not prepared for the brutal head kick that followed. The kick landed squarely, leaving Volkanovski reeling and vulnerable to Makhachev’s subsequent punches. The referee had no choice but to step in and stop the fight, saving Volkanovski from further harm.
This victory marks Makhachev’s second successful defense of his lightweight title and solidifies his position as one of the top fighters in the UFC. The first fight between Makhachev and Volkanovski was closely contested, with Makhachev emerging victorious by a narrow margin. The rematch, however, left no room for doubt as to who the superior fighter was.
It is worth noting that Volkanovski took this fight on just two weeks’ notice, a decision that came with significant risks. While it would have been interesting to see how he would have fared with a full training camp, the outcome of the fight speaks for itself.
Results: Islam Makhachev def. Alexander Volkanovski via first-round KO (3:06)
Watch the highlights below:
Another shot at history awaits!@AlexVolkanovski enters for a chance at champ-champ status at #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/UxcTgvOUuz
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
Defending the throne once again!@MakhachevMMA looking to close the door on Volkanovski a second time here at #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/RmOfd3GyC4
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
AND STILLLLLLLLLLLL
ISLAM MAKHACHEV KNOCKS OUT ALEX VOLKANOVSKI WITH THE LEFT HEADKICK
THE SCENES IN ABU DHABI #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/3ug0AIEVyh
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) October 21, 2023
ISLAM MAKHACHEV JUST KNOCKED OUT ALEX VOLKANOVSKI 😱😱 #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/g4bsINLcKM
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
Doesn't matter who's next, @MakhachevMMA is ready 😤 #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/gqCQvdfQBo
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
Nothing but class from the featherweight champ 👏@AlexVolkanovski shows respect for Makhachev after a tough loss #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/CV0Sw1QSb3
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
