Their first bout is widely regarded as an all-time classic. Makhachev, the Lightweight champion, traveled to Volkanovski's home turf in Australia.
: Volkanovski stepped in on less than two weeks' notice to attempt to avenge his loss.
The rivalry between and Alexander Volkanovski featured two of the most technical high-stakes matchups in modern UFC history, both with the Lightweight Championship on the line. Makhachev ultimately won both encounters to cement his status as the pound-for-pound king. Quick Stats & Series Summary UFC 284 Feb 11, 2023 Makhachev def. Volkanovski Decision (Unanimous) Perth, Australia UFC 294 Oct 21, 2023 Makhachev def. Volkanovski KO (Head Kick) Abu Dhabi, UAE The First Meeting: UFC 284 UFC: Makhachev vs Volkanovski
: After the kick dropped Volkanovski, Makhachev followed up with ground strikes, ending the fight at 3:06 of Round 1 to retain his title . UFC 284: Makhachev vs Volkanovski Results
: It was a grueling five-round battle where Volkanovski, the Featherweight champion moving up in weight, shocked many by effectively neutralizing much of Makhachev’s wrestling. Their first bout is widely regarded as an all-time classic
: Makhachev ended all doubt by landing a perfectly timed left head kick in the first round.
The second fight came together under dramatic circumstances after Charles Oliveira was forced to withdraw due to injury just 11 days before the event. The rivalry between and Alexander Volkanovski featured two
: Volkanovski finished the final round in top position landing heavy strikes, but Makhachev’s early lead in striking and control time earned him the unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46). The Rematch: UFC 294