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#4. Alexander Volkanovski vs Islam Makhachev
Another possible opponent for Alexander Volkanovski at lightweight is Islam Makhachev, who has risen up the ranks at 155lbs. Makhachev is one of the top fighters training under former UFC lightweight champion Khabib "The Eagle" Nurmagomedov and has many similarities. Makhachev has done an excellent job getting his opponents to the ground and submitting them.
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Not only is Makhachev’s fighting style similar to Nurmagomedov's, but their manager Ali said he believes Makhachev is a better version. That’s incredible praise for the current fifth-ranked lightweight, considering Nurmagomedov retired unbeaten at 29-0.
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Nurmagomedov has backed Ali Abdelaziz's claims and even said he believes Mahkachev is the best lightweight in the world. Both Volkanovski and Makhachev have similar MMA records. Volkanovski is 23-1 and Makhachev is 20-1, so experience wouldn’t be an issue.
Makhachev is scheduled to fight Dan Hooker later this month and another impressive win could earn him a lucrative fight. Volkanovski has excellent takedown defense and could pose many problems for Makhachev should they compete against one another. Based on Volkanovski’s performance against a high-level grappler like Ortega, a bout with Makhachev at lightweight would be intriguing.
#3. Alexander Volkanovski vs Rafael Dos Anjos
Rafael Dos Anjos would be an interesting opponent for Alexander Volkanovski at lightweight. The former UFC lightweight champion has had success competing at welterweight since changing weight-classes in 2017. However, after back-to-back losses to top contenders Michael Chiesa and Leon Edwards, RDA moved back down to 155lbs.
In his lightweight return, Dos Anjos defeated Paul Felder by split decision and was later awarded Fight of the Night. Dos Anjos looked great on his return and inserted himself back into the top-10 in the division.
Although Dos Anjos is 36, he still has plenty of fight left and could be a great test for Volkanovski. Alexander Volkanovski defeating a former lightweight champion could be a great addition to his already impressive resume. Some of Volkanovski’s most notable wins at featherweight include Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, Chad Mendes and Brian Ortega.
Volkanovski-Dos Anjos could take place primarily on the feet and turn into a slugfest. If Volkanovski could avoid Dos Anjos’ leg kicks, he could secure a takedown and takeover on the ground. With that said, Alexander Volkanovski and Rafael Dos Anjos are both well rounded, so their styles would make for an entertaining fight.
