.png)
In an unexpected turn of events, UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski has recently expressed interest in a rematch against Islam Makhachev, this time in the lightweight division, at an event in Abu Dhabi.
Volkanovski and Makhachev previously fought on 12th February at UFC 284 Perth, with Makhachev emerging as the victor with a unanimous decision, keeping his impressive winning streak in the UFC intact. It was Makhachev's first title defense since winning it in spectacular 2nd round submission win over Charles Oliveira at UFC 280. The fans in Perth could not absorb Volkanovski loss which resulted in heavy booing towards the Dagestani champion.
Volkanovski, who has defended his featherweight title four times, is eager to challenge himself in the stacked lightweight division again this time in enemy territory, and a rematch against Makhachev would certainly be a significant step up in competition. Abu Dhabi is kind of a second home for Islam Makhachev as he has spent several training camps on Arabian soil.
“Should we do it again? Maybe Abu Dhabi,” Volkanovski told Makhachev after the fight on his YouTube channel. “You deserve one in Abu Dhabi – my turn to get booed.
“Make rematch happen: Abu Dhabi. Yes, that’s fair.”
While some may question Volkanovski's decision to pursue a lightweight title shot rather than defending his featherweight belt, he has made it clear that he is willing to take on any challenges to solidify his place among the all-time greats of the sport.
An event in Abu Dhabi would be the perfect setting for a rematch between the two fighters, as the city has become a hub for high-profile UFC events in recent years. Additionally, Makhachev has a strong following in the Middle East, which could help boost the event's popularity in the region.
Even though Makhachev has yet to be offered the rematch, it's clear that both fighters are open to the idea. Makhachev has previously expressed interest in a rematch, while acknowledging Volkanovski as the toughest opponent he’s ever faced.
If the rematch does come to fruition, it would be a highly anticipated matchup between two of the UFC's most exciting fighters. With Makhachev's dominant grappling and Volkanovski well-rounded skill set, this fight could go either way.
For now, we'll have to wait and see if the UFC decides to make this fight a reality as Yair Rodriguez was crowned the interim featherweight champion on the very same card. So Alexander Volkanovski has the decision to make whether he opts for the title unification bout or seeks vengeance for the double champ status. But if the rematch does happen, fight fans can expect an explosive showdown in Abu Dhabi that could potentially have title implications in the lightweight division.
Comments