After using a mix of superb wrestling and crisp counter striking to defeat Alexander Volkanovski by unanimous decision, Islam Makhachev had a message for the entire mixed martial arts community.
"I showed why I'm No. 1," Makhachev told ESPN+ in the Octagon, referring to the UFC's pound-for-pound rankings. "They have to improve more. He has good striking, good wrestling/grappling skills, this is his area ... but you like or you don’t like, I am best fighter in the world right now. Thank you."
He doubled down on the assertion while walking backstage at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia following his UFC 284 victory.
Though he got his stiffest challenge to date Saturday night, Makhachev (24-1) certainly makes his declaration hard to dispute following his big win. Not only did the lightweight world champion extend his winning streak to 12, but should also take over the top spot on the pound-for-pound list considering Volkanovski was No. 1 entering their fight.
After thwarting Volkanovski, the UFC's featherweight titleholder, in his attempt to become the company's fifth double champion, Makhachev awaits his next challenge.
Charles Oliveira, who Makhachev defeated in October to become the lightweight champion, remains the No. 1 contender.
Dustin Poirier is No. 2 and Justin Gaethje is third.
Makhachev would only say that "I need a real contender" next.