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Islam Makhachev is feeling himself after his latest big win.
On Saturday, Makhachev defeated Volkanovski via a controversial unanimous decision at UFC 284 in Australia.
The full #UFC284 main event scorecards 📝 pic.twitter.com/zCx1YmqcFb
— UFC (@ufc) February 12, 2023
After the fight, Makhachev dubbed himself the “best fighter in the world” for beating the previously #1 ranked pound-for-pound fighter.
Islam Makhachev: “Now I’m not just a champion, I’m the best fighter in the world.”
Full #UFC284 scrum ▶️ https://t.co/TT3QUGi7NO pic.twitter.com/ByiZS2DQ2w
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) February 12, 2023
Islam also believed that he has surpassed Jon Jones as the best fighter in the world, even if Jones beats Ciryl Gane on March 4th.
““Jon Jones is a great fighter, of course. He’s the best, but last time he won a split decision, or he always has hard fights. I don’t know. I don’t think after [his] fight, he will be the best. I’m the best right now because I beat the best fighter in the world. This is why I think I deserve this. If somebody wants to be the best, I’m ready.”
Makhachev also fired back at Nate Diaz and Volkanovski for saying Volk should have gotten the judges’ decision.
Islam Makhachev responds to Nate Diaz: "Maybe he smoked something and watched the fight" 😬 #UFC284 pic.twitter.com/kyvJHT28Pu
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) February 12, 2023
Just watched the fight, I definitely think I won 2,3 and 5. Surprised I didn’t get my hand raised! Let’s do the rematch, anywhere, anytime! 👊
— Alex Volkanovski (@alexvolkanovski) February 12, 2023
Just watched the tape, and have to be fair, out of 25 minutes Volk got last 1 minute!
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) February 12, 2023