UFC 294 recently lost its originally scheduled main event as Charles Oliveira pulled out due to an injury suffered during sparring. However, the fans got more than they desired as Alexander Volkanovski jumped in as the short-notice replacement for Islam Makhachev.
Michael Bisping, the former middleweight champion and current UFC commentator had his take on the newly announced main event for UFC 294. Moreover, UFC 294 also had its co-main event rescheduled as Kamaru Usman replaced the injured Paulo Costa to face Khamzat Chimaev.
Bisping claims Volkanovski not to “get another shot” if he loses vs Islam Makhachev
Michael Bisping in his MMA podcast, “Believe You Me” with UFC light heavyweight title challenger, Anthony “Lion Heart” Smith, discussed about the highly-anticipated card. “The Count” in the episode provided the negatives and positives of Alexander Volkanovski accepting a short-notice fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 294.
Bisping praised the Australian featherweight champion for stepping up on short notice. However, he believes that if “The Great” loses to Islam Makhachev at UFC 294, it would be his second loss to the lightweight champion. Such a scenario would close the door for the reigning featherweight champion to attain double champ status as long as Makhachev remains the champion in the division.
The encounter between Volkanovski and Makhachev at UFC 284 was a nail-biter, with Islam Makhachev securing a narrow victory. Noted MMA commentator, Joe Rogan, among others, was of the opinion that Volkanovski could have clinched the win in Perth, Australia. However, the challenge ahead for Volkanovski is multifaceted. Not only does he seek redemption for UFC 284, but he’s also stepping into a higher-weight class on short notice.
Charles Oliveira’s withdrawal let Volkanovski fight at UFC 294
Former lightweight champion, Charles Oliveira withdrew from his scheduled bout with Islam Makhachev due to an injury sustained in a recent sparring session in a dramatic turn of events leading up to UFC 294.
Mateusz Gamrot was the backup for the event but the promotion went to Alexander Volkanovski. It remains to be seen whether Gamrot will still be the backup for the event. Volkanovski accepting the fight at UFC 294 was hours after rumors of him defending his title against Ilia Topuria at UFC 294 in Toronto began circulating.
Some critics question Volkanovski’s conditioning for a full five rounds on short notice. Moreover, Volk even acknowledged in his interview on Submission Radio that he is not going to test Islam Makhachev’s cardio. However, there were only 12 hours to rehydrate in Australia whereas in Abu Dhabi, there would be more than 24 hours to rehydrate.
Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez recently announced his happiness in getting Volkanovski at UFC 294 as he felt that it could be a chance to stamp authority. Moreover, Khabib Nurmagomdeov, a friend and mentor of Islam Makhachev, had no worries about the short-notice nature of the fight.
All eyes are now set on UFC 294, as Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski prepare to settle their score. Who do you think will win? Comment below!
