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Picking apart Islam Makhachev: How Alexander Volkanovski could upset the lightweight champ at UFC 284

Islam Makhachev will put his lightweight title on the line against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284 on Saturday night. GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images

When UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev puts his title on the line against featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284 in Perth, Australia, on Saturday night (10 p.m. ET on ESPN+ PPV), Makhachev will be the clear favorite.

Despite taking on ESPN's No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in his first title defense, there seems to be an overwhelming belief among fans and oddsmakers that Makhachev (23-1) will win this fight. And with a win, he can claim the P4P top spot.

With Volkanovski (25-1) entering the matchup as an underdog, it sparks a couple of questions: How good is the lightweight champion? What is Volkanovski's path to victory if Makhachev is as good as advertised?

Former UFC women's featherweight and current ESPN MMA analyst Megan Anderson breaks down Makhachev's game and the areas where Volkanovski could find an opportunity to capitalize.


How good is Islam Makhachev?