UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has retained his title by knocking out Australian Alexander Volkanovski in the third minute of the first round of their title fight at UFC 294 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Makhachev looked calm and composed throughout the opening minutes of the fight, attempting a takedown. However, Volkanovski was able to reverse that and had Islam pushed up against the cage fence for a short moment.
The Wollongong local was called up when Brazilian contender Charles Oliveira suddenly pulled out from the bout scheduled to take place next weekend in Abu Dhabi. Oliveira was cut badly on his eyebrow in a sparring session the day before he was due to fly out, with his rushed decision to get stitches stopping him from getting on the plane. It was the second time that Volkanovski took on Makhachev this year, after losing a decision victory at UFC 284 in Perth.