October 12, 2023 8: 50 am ET
Islam Makhachev believes Alexander Volkanovski has absolutelynothing to lose by stepping in on brief notification at UFC 294.
Lightweight champ Makhachev (24-1 MMA, 13-1 UFC) was arranged to protect his belt versus Charles Oliveira next Saturday, Oct. 21 in Abu Dhabi, however Oliveira was required out due to a cut. As a result, featherweight champ Volkanovski (26-2 MMA, 13-1 UFC) will action in on brief notification for his title-fight rematch.
Makhachev anticipated to face top competitor Mateusz Gamrot, who will weigh in as a backup for the title battle. Although Volkanovski taking the battle captured lotsof by surprise, Makhachev comprehends why he did it.
“I idea they will provide me Gamrot, however I heard Gamrot didn’t get this battle,” Makhachev informed TSN. “But when they stated it’s going to be Volkanovski, it’s not a huge surprise for me since this guy, what (does) he lose? He take battle on 10 day