2023 Best Fight in MMA is Ready

Islam Makhachev will attempt to defend his UFC lightweight title for the first time at UFC 284 against Alexander Volkanovski. The two best pound-for-pound fighters in the promotion will go head-to-head, with both men appearing supremely confident ahead of the bout.

Tatiana Suarez, who will be making her comeback to the UFC in February after a series of injuries, was asked to break down the matchup during an interview with Helen Yee.

The Californian stated that Makhachev's size advantage and superior grappling skills will give him the upper hand:

"I think Islam's grappling is so superior, and he'll be able to get Volkanovski down... I think he's a master on top. I think Islam is a big 155-pounder, I don't know how big Alex is.

Being a two-time bronze medalist at the Wrestling World Championships, Suarez will no doubt be aware of just how phenomenal Islam Makhachev's grappling is, hence why she picked him to defend his title against Alexander Vokanovski.

Makhacev's impressive performance over Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 surprised many. The Dagestani was able to secure the title with relative ease against 'Do Bronx', who had demolished his previous three opponents.

The UFC lightweight champion is currently a -355 favorite and many believe that he will extend his unbeaten streak to 12.