Dana White is open to Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski 2, but not likely to happen soon

In a recent post-fight press conference at UFC Vegas 70, UFC President Dana White hinted at a potential rematch between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski. While White expressed his openness to the idea, he also stated that it was unlikely to happen next for either fighter.

Alexander Volknovski and Islam Makhachev got involved in a super fight that fans will never forget. Dana White applauded the UFC 284 main event competitors for showing they were deserving of the infrequent champion-versus-champion confrontation that takes place within the organization.

Volkanovski has consistently demanded a rematch right away following the bout, claiming that Makhachev should have been given the nod instead because the Russian won by unanimous decision.

White doesn't appear to be against the notion, but he quickly puts a stop to any immediate action because Volkanovski's comeback to 145 pounds is eagerly anticipated by the newly UFC interim featherweight champion Yair Rodriguez.

“You know what my thoughts are on that when you make a super fight, could you possibly have a better f****** result than we did on that fight? Right?

“When the entire world is arguing over who won, that’s a super fight and it delivers right? The only thing that could possibly be better than that is the guy who’s fighting for the interim title comes out looking incredible, too. So, now you got Yair versus Volkanovski.”

While Rodriguez defeated Josh Emmett to claim the interim title in the UFC 284 co-main event, he contributed to securing a future matchup with Volkanovski. Makhachev, meanwhile, is getting ready to observe Ramadan, which takes place from March 22 through April 21. As a result, his next bout will probably be postponed until the second half of 2023.

When Beneil Dariush takes on former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira in May, this battle has the makings of a future No. 1 contender. White made it obvious that he just hadn't secured any bouts at lightweight or featherweight, but the victor could certainly hold Makhachev's interest in his next title defense.

Both fighters have proven themselves to be elite talents in their respective divisions, and a rematch between them would undoubtedly be a highly anticipated event for fans of the sport. However, with their sights set on new challenges, it seems unlikely that we'll see them face off in the Octagon anytime soon.

Nevertheless, the possibility of a rematch between Makhachev and Volkanovski remains an exciting prospect for MMA fans. As both fighters continue to cement their legacies in their respective divisions, it will be interesting to see how their paths continue to cross in the future.