Aussie Alex Volkanovski has broken his silence since his emphatic defeat to Islam Makhachev in the headline event at UFC 294 by posting a photo of himself and the Dagestani champion.
Makhachev defeated Volkanovski with a devastating head kick and punches in Round 1 of their highly-anticipated re-match.
It was an impressive performance from Makhachev and settled whatever debate still remained from the pair’s first bout in February.
Incredibly, it was just the second time in the Aussie’s career that he has been stopped and the pain of it was visible for all to see.
Volkanovski became very emotional when speaking to press after the bout, fighting back tears when talking about the pressure he has been under.
Alex Volkanovski posted a photo of himself and heated rival Islam Makhachev
Volkanovski has knocked out with a devastating head kick and punches in Round 1
On Tuesday morning, Volkanovski took to social media for the first time since the event to post a photo of himself and Makhachev posing together in Abu Dhabi.
Volkanovski captioned the photo: ‘All respect to Islam and his team. On to the next.’
Makhachev shared a similar photo to his own Instagram account, with the caption: ‘Nothing, but respect.’
It was a classy move from the fiercely competitive athletes who haven’t always had the smoothest relationship.
One of the biggest controversies between the pair stemmed from allegations from Team Volkanovski that Makhachev had illegally used an IV drip to help rehydrate after an grueling weight cut in February.
Fight fans were happy to see the pair posing together after the event and took to social media to comment.
‘Two respectful champions and class acts. Nobody else would have taken the fight/change on such short notice. Props to them both,’ commented one fan.
‘Was rooting for Islam the whole time but Volk has got to be the most respectful opponent, overall a top class & pure guy,’ said another.
Makhachev shared a similar photo of the pair together to his own Instagram account
Volkanovski and Makhachev haven’t always had the best relationship outside of the Octagon
Makhachev proved he is without a doubt one of the best fighters on the planet and put an end to his rivalry with the featherweight Aussie
‘You’re the People’s Champ! The risks you take & the wars you’ve fought has already cemented you as an all time great,’ posted a third.
Many fans have been concerned for the featherweight champ since his comments after the bout detailing his mental health struggles.
Makhachev is likely to face either Charles Oliveira or Justin Gaethje next, although he will be a significant favourite against both men.
Currently, Jon Jones sits atop the pound-for-pound list but it is difficult to argue with the Russian on this kind of form.
