A. Volkanovski (right) surpassed M. Holloway in the UFC 276. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufceurope
This Saturday (2), Alexander Volkanovsky He successfully defended the UFC featherweight belt (up to 65,7kg). At a stronger and faster pace, the Australian was superior and won Max Holloway in the unanimous decision of the judges. With the result, the champion beat his rival for the third time, putting an end to the trilogy. The fight took place at the T-Mobile Arena, in Las Vegas (USA). With his eye on yet another title, he challenged Charles of the Bronx for a fight at lightweight (up to 70,3kg.).
Undefeated in Ultimate, Volka managed to retain his fifth belt under 65,7kg. The Australian also scored his 12th consecutive victory in the organization, with 25 triumphs and one setback in his career. The Australian equals his rival and is only behind the Brazilian José Aldo, who made eight saves in the division.
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Holloway, who reigned from 2017 to 2019, suffered the 'bitter taste' of his seventh consecutive defeat. The Hawaiian now has 23 positive results and six negative results.
The fight
Surrounded by expectations, the duel began with low kicks being delivered by both fighters. Volkanovski, from close range, came close to landing a dangerous hook on Holloway. The champion continued to combine, while the challenger adopted an aggressive stance, in order to find the distance. In the final stretch, the exchange became frank and they ended up applauded by the audience present.
After losing the first round, Holloway became more active and worked more strikes, but Volkanovski tried to change levels and 'boxed' him against the fence. With the fight standing up, the Hawaiian tried to touch his face and had a bleed on his eyebrow that made it difficult for him to carry out his actions.
At the beginning of the third round, Max landed a good combination of jabs and straight shots on Alexander, who responded with a straight shot. Strategic, the champion remained confident and launched hard counterattacks from distance. He, however, saw Holloway hurt him in boxing and also had a cut on his face.
The fourth round began with Volkanovski exploding on top of Holloway and striking his rival with his back to the cage. The fight, however, was restarted on the feet, with Max trying to shorten it, but seeing Alex impose a strong and fast pace.
The Hawaiian received, from his corner, a request to try to end the fight on the fast track and regain his title. However, what we saw was 'more of the same', with dominance from the Australian, who had his victory confirmed in a unanimous decision.
Challenge to Charles of the Bronx
Alexander has even tried to mention his next challenge. In an interview still in the octagon, the Australian revealed his dream of being a double champion and plans to fight against Charles of the Bronx.
“I just want to prove what I know I can do in the octagon. I want to be busy and I don't think the (featherweight) division is ready for that. I want to move up, to be champion of two categories. Where are you, Charles (from the Bronx)? I have nothing but respect. But I would love to have that chance to be a double champion,” said Volkanovski.
UFC 276 results
MAIN CARD
Average weight (up to 83,9kg): Israel adesanya derrotou Jared Cannonier in the unanimous decision of the judges (49-46, 49-46, 50-45) – Fight for the belt
Feather weight: Alexander Volkanovsky derrotou Max Holloway in the unanimous decision of the judges (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) – Fight for the belt
Average weight (up to 83,9kg): Alex Poatán derrotou Sean Strickland by knockout at 2m36s of R1
Welterweight (up to 77kg): Bryan barberena derrotou Robbie Lawler by technical knockout (punches) at 4:47 of R2
Bantam weight (up to 62,1kg): Peter Munhoz x Sean O'Malley ended 'No Result' after illegal hit (finger to the eye)
PRELIMINARY CARD
Light weight (up to 70,3kg.): jalin turner derrotou Brad Riddell by submission (guillotine) at 45s of R1
Light weight (up to 70,3kg.): Jim Miller finished Donald Cerrone with a guillotine 1m32s from R2
Welterweight (up to 77kg): Ian Gary derrotou Gabe Green in the unanimous decision of the judges (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Average weight (up to 83,9kg): Dricus Du Plessis derrotou Brad Tavares in the unanimous decision of the judges (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Average weight (up to 83,9kg): André Sergipano derrotou Uriah Hall in the unanimous decision of the judges (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Flyweight (up to 52,7kg): Maycee barber derrotou Jessica Eye in the unanimous decision of the judges (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
Bantam weight (up to 61,2kg): Julija Stoliarenko derrotou Jessica Rose-Clark by submission (armbar) at 42s of R1
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