The lightweight champion of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Islam Makhachev, spoke openly about the challenges of weight management ahead of the title defense against Australian contender Alex Volkanovski. The moment carried high stakes, not only because it was a title fight, but because the weight cut can shape the entire bout. Makhachev recalled reaching out to Khabib Nurmagomedov after the weigh-in, seeking guidance on how to execute the process correctly. He described his team’s uncertainty because nothing about this weight cut had matched past experiences. It was clear the schedule demanded precision, focus, and a plan that could sustain him through the demanding fight week.
Typically, his routine after weighing included a careful hydration strategy, followed by a meal after a period of light training. He would train in the evening, then avoid eating immediately beforehand. The approach left him with a long period before his next meal, during which time he would manage fatigue and maintain readiness. On fight day, the decision about food became a practical dilemma as he prepared to travel to the arena and step into the arena aura that accompanies a championship bout. This kind of balance—hydration, timing, and discipline—remains a crucial part of Makhachev’s preparation for each big moment in the octagon.
On February 12, Makhachev faced Volkanovski at UFC 284 in Perth, Australia, earning a unanimous decision after five rounds. The win marked a major milestone, as it represented his 24th professional triumph and the successful defense of the lightweight title for the first time since winning the belt. The fight showcased the champion’s strategic control, endurance, and ability to execute a game plan over a full five rounds, even under the weight-cut pressures that accompany a title defense on such a global stage.
Earlier in the calendar, Makhachev had confronted Brazil’s Charles Oliveira in a high-profile lightweight title bout at UFC 280 in Abu Dhabi. In that contest, he seized control in the second round with a powerful submission that demonstrated his grappling excellence and finishing instincts. The sequence underscored the evolution of his approach, combining relentless pressure with a lethal submission threat that can alter the dynamics of any match in a hurry.
Throughout his career, Makhachev has offered insights into how stellar teammates and mentors influence his path. He has discussed the influence of trusted figures and seasoned teammates who helped shape his understanding of technique, conditioning, and the mental edge required to compete at this level. These reflections illuminate the culture around the team and the ongoing commitment to continuous improvement that defines his journey in the sport.