Alexander Volkanovski was soundly beaten by lightweight champion Islam Machachev at UFC 294. Photo: UFC
There's no debate this time.
After a razor close decision in their first meeting, Islam Makhachev has ended the rivalry with Alexander Volkanovski in emphatic fashion at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
Makhachev needed just three minutes of the first round to land a vicious left head kick followed up by relentless ground and pound to end Volkanovski's bid for double gold.
The fight did not live up to the hype of their first clash in Perth, which many believe Volkanovski did enough to get his hand raised.
However, taking the rematch on short notice after Charles Olivera pulled out, Machachev dominated the Australian featherweight.
The Dagestan phenom shot for an early takedown which was stuffed as the pair clinched on the cage.
After some flurried exchanges in close, the pair broke and moved to the centre of the octagon.
Having landed some solid kicks to the body, Volkanovski was weary of the threat when Machachev went high, splitting his opponent's eyebrow as he tumbled to the canvas.
Machachev swarmed Volkanovski and unable to answer the onslaught, Marc Goddard called for the finish.
Volkanovski said in his post match interview that he wants to stay busy, suggesting a clash with number five ranked featherweight Ilia Topuria in January.
"That hurts me but he's a great champion. If you're not prepared properly, look what he can do to you. That's how good he is so credit to him. I just want to say to the UFC, please keep me busy. I don't do well when I'm not fighting."
His quest for a lightweight title is over for the time being though "The Great" remains the greatest featherweight on the planet.
"Obviously get this (eyebrow cut) taken care of. Obviously go back down to featherweight, My job here is done for now. I'm sorry I couldn't put on a better show."
Machachev, a devout Muslim, offered his support to the victims of the Middle East conflict and called for an end to the violence.
He also credited Volkanovski for accepting the bout on short notice.
"He's a real champion, he never gives up, thank you, Alex."
- RNZ