Islam Makhachev becomes undisputed #1 fighter in the world after outlasting Alexander Volkanowski

It was a night of firsts at UFC 284 as it was the first time in MMA history that the #1 and #2 ranked fighters in the world squared off against each other. The fight was everything fans hoped it would be. The two warriors stood toe to toe in front of a raucous Australian crowd. The previous #1 fighter in the world Alexander Volkanowski (25-2) was the hometown favorite and lost a tough decision. He ate shot after tough shot and stuffed takedown after takedown and unfortunately for him he came up short. The new #1 fighter in the world is Russian Islam Makhachev (23-1).

The bout was a unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46). The loss was Volkanovski's first loss in the UFC. The Australian did all he could preventing much of the typical ground damage that is common of Makhachev's offense and was able to knock Makhachev down with solid striking. But it just wasn't enough. The unstoppable Russian standout showed his skills on the feet through the first three rounds, trading with Volkanovski and getting the better of the exchanges. In the 4th round the lightweight champ was able to manipulate Volkanowski’s back which was a dominating round. In the last round Volkanowski was able to floor Makhachev with a big left hand finishing the fight on top. Makhachev earned the unanimous decision win and successfully defended his title, but Volkanovski still looked amazing in defeat moving up in weight.

We may see Volkanvoski right away as Yair Rodriguez proved once again why he is one of the most talented and entertaining fighters on the roster. Rodriguez stopped Josh Emmett by submitting him off his back with a triangle choke. Rodriguez now waits to see when he'll step into the octagon with Volkanovski, who said he wants to stay active in 2023.

As for the new #1 fighter in the world he said he is ready and willing to take on all comers as he believes no one can currently beat him and the way he fought tonight having everyone against him he may certainly be right.