A super fight between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski may be heading to Australia. Makhachev made a challenge to the UFC featherweight champion immediately after fighting Charles Oliveira to win the UFC lightweight belt at UFC 280.
Islam Makhachev’s challenges Volkanovski
Normally, the defending champion is the one who fields callouts, but not this time. In the aftermath of UFC 280’s main event, Makhachev and his coach, UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagoemdov, challenged Volkanovski to a lightweight title battle in Australia. Volkanovski is the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC and acted as an alternative for Oliveira vs. Makhachev. Volkanovski accepted Makhachev’s challenge and was invited inside the Octagon.
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Nurmagomedov stated that after defeating Oliveira, Makhachev should take over as the sport’s best pound-for-pound fighter. Volkanovski has consistently stated his intention to compete for the lightweight title while waiting for a viable contender in the featherweight class.
Islam Makhachev dominated Oliveira
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At UFC 280, Makhachev dominated Oliveira. In Round 1, his ability to knock down Oliveira and dodge submit attempts set up a fight-ending finish in Round 2. Makhachev threw Oliveira to the ground and promptly secured an arm-triangle choke, forcing Oliveira to tap.
“I had not anticipated a second-round finish. He even dropped Charles, which was impressive “Volkanovski informed the UFC’s social media staff. “His hands appeared to be in good condition, yet I’ve seen him have difficulty merely holding Charles down. Believe me, I am not simple to control. I’m going to return to my feet. Let’s just say it’s going to be a stand-up conflict, and we’ll see what happens.”
Makhachev (23-1) has now won 11 straight games. Volkanovski (25-1) is unbeaten in the UFC and has won 22 consecutive fights dating back to 2013.