The Case for Pound-for-Pound: Why Volkanovski's Performance Shouldn't Be Ignored

Alexander Volkanovski's performance at UFC 284 was a standout display of skill, heart, and intelligence. Even though he ultimately lost via unanimous decision to Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, Volkanovski's performance should be celebrated and appreciated for what it was: a pound-for-pound showcase of what a top fighter can do.

Fighting in front of a raucous crowd at Perth's RAC Arena, Volkanovski showed why he is one of the best fighters in the world today. Despite giving up size and reach to Makhachev, Volkanovski refused to be bullied or outworked, and instead used his speed, footwork, and grappling ability to stay competitive and even dominate parts of the fight.

In particular, Volkanovski's grip fighting was a marvel to behold. Early in the fight, Makhachev attempted a takedown along the fence, but instead of trying to defend it, Volkanovski turned away and gave up the back clinch, using his head to post on the cage for balance. From there, he went to work prying apart Makhachev's grip, and although the move didn't work in the first round, the early commitment to fighting hands above all else paid dividends in later rounds, when Volkanovski began to win more and more scrambles.

Beyond his grip fighting, Volkanovski also showed great defensive wrestling and striking ability. He was able to neutralize much of Makhachev's offense, and even landed some hard shots and combinations of his own. In the most thrilling exchanges of the fight, Volkanovski's heart and determination were on full display, as he refused to back down or be intimidated by the larger and more powerful Makhachev.

Ultimately, the judges gave the nod to Makhachev, but the fact remains that Volkanovski's performance was one for the ages. In a sport where size and strength often play a huge role, Volkanovski proved that skill, heart, and intelligence can make up for a lot. For those who care about pound-for-pound greatness, Volkanovski's performance at UFC 284 should be remembered as a true masterpiece of fighting.