'I want to knock him': Islam Makhachev wants KO win over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284

In build-up to UFC 284, one-half of event's main event Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has said that he wants to prove a point at upcoming PPV show. fighter is set to face Fearweight Champion Alexander Volkavski, in a champ-champ encounter that will decide who would leave Octagon as Pound-for-Pound number 1. 

Coming into fight as safe pick among betters, Islam Makhachev is favourate to win bout if fight odds are to considered. Makhachev conquered UFC Lightweight title at UFC 280 when he displayed a near-perfect performance against Charles Oliveira. Kwn for his grappling and ground game, Islam Makhachev has said upcoming fight against Alexander Volkavski will present him with opportunity to showcase a different aspect of his game. In an interview with ESPN, fighter from Dstan stated that his opponent should remain wary of his striking.

"I want to kck him out": Islam Makhachev

“Honestly, I want to kck him out,” said Makhachev. “Everybody says Islam is a grappler or wrestler, but I want to show people my striking. He is a short guy, and I really believe I can kck him out.”

“This is t his area,” continued Makhachev. “I’m from or division. This is t same power. It’s t same, and he’s going to understand this, but he wants to try because he’s t losing. If he loses, what is he going to lose? Just belt with him, but he wants to try and jump and make some good money, make some pay-per-view money, but this is t his area.”

If Makhachev does what he intends to do at UFC 284, n he will become only second fighter to do so. Australian's only loss, which was a KO loss, came almost a decade ago at hands of Corey Nelson. fighter has since built an incredible 22-fight win streak.

UFC 284 will take place on Sunday, 12 February 2023. Combining Early Prelims, Preliminary and Main Card a total of 13 fights are lined-up for event. event will transpire at RAC Arena in Perth, Australia.