Despite Alexander Volkanovski expressing a strong desire for a rematch against Islam Makhachev, it appears that the Dagestani fighter has a different plan in mind for his next bout.
Makhachev has shown interest in facing the welterweight champion rather than the featherweight champion, leaving the MMA community wondering if another highly anticipated super fight is in the works.
Alexander Volkanovski wants Islam Makhachev rematch
Following UFC 290’s post-fight press conference, Volk expressed his strong desire for a rematch against Islam Makhachev, emphasizing his wish for redemption against the lightweight champion.
‘The Great’ still holds aspirations of avenging his previous loss and aims to claim victory in a potential rematch, with the ultimate goal of becoming a two-division champion by securing the lightweight title,” Volkanovski said.
“We all know I want that lightweight belt. We all know I want that rematch. I want that Islam fight. I think not only for me to get that belt, to get that win back but I think it is a massive fight for the UFC as well,” he added.
In a highly anticipated super fight at UFC 284, held at Perth’s RAC Arena on February 12, Makhachev successfully defended his lightweight title against Volkanovski. Now, the upcoming UFC 294 is scheduled to take place on October 21, 2023, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
There is considerable excitement surrounding Makhachev’s return to the octagon for this event. If the featherweight champ agrees to it, there is a strong possibility that a rematch will be arranged for this particular card.
Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski back at it 👀 https://t.co/uvANVIteI3
— Fight 4 Yours (@fight_4_yours) July 19, 2023
Islam Makhachev calls out Leon Edwards
Although Islam Makhachev has not finalized an opponent for his upcoming fight, it is highly likely that the reigning lightweight champion will compete in Abu Dhabi. Makhachev has expressed his interest in facing Leon Edwards, who secured the welterweight gold strap after defeating Kamaru Usman earlier this year.
Since Edwards does not currently have a confirmed fight scheduled, there exists a strong potential for a clash between these two champions from different divisions within the octagon.
However, it is important to note that nothing has been officially confirmed at this stage, and like many other potential matchups, this fight may never come to fruition.
Alexander Volkanovski says Islam Makhachev doesn’t want the smoke 👀 pic.twitter.com/7I1Pk38YIM
— Combat Sports Today 📰 (@CSTodayNews) July 19, 2023
In the meantime, fans can engage in speculation and discuss who might emerge victorious if these two formidable forces were to collide in the octagon.
