Islam Makhachev is set to have his first title defense on February 11 at UFC 284, and he is determined to display his striking power by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski
Since making his debut in the UFC in 2015, Islam has gone on to win 11 of his 12 subsequent fights, with one defeat coming at the hands of Adriano Martins in 2015. Since then, the Russian fighter has continued his dominant run in the promotion.
Islam Makhachev reveals Khabib Nurmagomedov has become a family man but he's still available to offer advice and fight strategies đ„ž
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During UFC 280 in October 2022, Makhachev fought against Charles Oliveira in his first title fight. With his crushing victory, Makhachev secured his 12th victory for the promotion and ensured that his unbeaten streak would continue for the eighth consecutive year.
Volkanovski, who is up next for Islam, has fought in the welterweight, lightweight, and featherweight divisions in his career. After winning twelve bouts in a row, the Australian will step into the octagon to challenge the current lightweight champion. As recently as 2022, he had beaten both Jung Chan-sung and Max Holloway.
#AlexanderVolkanovski gives details about his conditioning before the #IslamMakhachev fight!!đȘđŒ#UFC #UFC284 #MMA pic.twitter.com/cK4P5I0aTS
— Sportsmanor (@sports_manor) February 3, 2023
A few days before the super fight, Islam sat down for an interview with an MMA reporter from ESPN named Carlos Contreras Legaspi. During the conversation, Islam discussed his upcoming fight and how he intends to win against The Great.
âHonestly, I want to knock him out. Everybody says Islam is a grappler or wrestler. But I want to show people my striking. Heâs a short guy, and I really believe I can knock him out. This is not his area. I am from (another) division. This is not the same power. Not the same. Heâs going to understand this.â said Makhachev.
Do you agree with the Betting Odds for Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski? pic.twitter.com/GgB04tDn3x
— MMA SAGA (@MMASAGGA) February 1, 2023
If the Dagestani mixed martial artist can successfully defend his title against the Australian fighter, he plans to move up to the welterweight division. Who do you think will come out on top at the RAC Arena on February 11?
