Athletes
The Best Of Islam Makhachev
Revisit Some Of Islam Makhachev's Best Moments Before He Faces Alexander Volkanovski At UFC 284.
The scariest man in the UFC’s lightweight division is Islam Makhachev.
Makhachev has been a dominant force as he’s climbed the ranks, going 23-1 in the UFC on his way to becoming the lightweight champion. He’s utilized his incredible wrestling and endless pressure to maul his opponents.
Let’s look back at his five best performances as we get ready for his upcoming UFC 284 fight with Alexander Volkanovski.
Islam Makhachev vs Gleison Tibau
UFC 220 – January 20, 2018
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It took Makhachev less than a minute to notch the biggest knockout of his career. Makhachev launched a massive left hook over the top that landed flush on Gleison Tibau’s chin. The strike sent the veteran to the canvas and put an end to the bout. It was an outstanding win and showed that Makhachev isn’t just a dangerous grappler, but a dangerous striker, as well.
Islam Makhachev vs Kajan Johnson
UFC Fight Night: Alvarez vs Poirier 2 – July 28, 2018
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After spending the majority of the first round feeling things out on the feet, Makhachev was able to get a hold of Kajan Johnson’s legs and drag him to the floor. Makhachev kept improving his position and peppering Johnson with shots until Makhachev isolated one of Johnson’s arms and secured an armbar.
The win just demonstrated how quickly Makhachev can overwhelm an opponent once the fight hits the floor.
Islam Makhachev vs Drew Dober
UFC 259 – March 6, 2021
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Let’s be clear, Drew Dober is one heck of a fighter but the performance that Islam Makhachev put on him at UFC 259 was incredible. For Makhachev to dominate Dober like he did for two rounds and some change, it was truly eye opening. This was Makhachev’s coming out party and the fight for him to come all the way out of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s shadow.
Islam Makhachev vs Dan Hooker
UFC 267 - October 30, 2021
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Makhachev didn't waste anytime extending his winning streak to nine at UFC 267. Getting the takedown he wanted in the opening minute of the bout, it took under three minutes in the first round to submit the New Zealander and get Makhachev his 21st win.
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Charles Oliveira vs Islam Makhachev
UFC 280 - October 22, 2022
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Islam Makhachev becomes your UFC lightweight champion!
Dropping Oliveira with a left hand and taking him to the canvas allowed Makhachev to secure the arm triangle choke and force the tap out from the Brazilian. This ferocious effort showed the world that not only can he compete with the elite talent in the lightweight division but he is elite.
It was Makhachev’s 11 straight victory and set him up for the world lightweight championship bout with Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284.
UFC 284: Makhachev vs Volkanovski took place live from RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia on February 11, 2023. See the Final Results, Official Scorecards and Who Won Bonuses - and relive all the action on UFC Fight Pass!