Alexander Volkanovski posted a video of Islam Makhachev agreeing to a rematch directly after UFC 284.
There’s no doubt that the UFC lightweight championship bout between Volkanovski and Makhachev was close. Some people even believe that ‘The Great’ should have won. As a result, there has been a discussion about an instant rematch.
The reigning featherweight champion released backstage footage after UFC 284, where he and Makhachev had this conversation:
“Should we do it again? – Volkanovski”
“Of course – Makhachev”
“Maybe Abu Dhabi. You deserve one in Abu Dhabi. My turn to get booed – Volkanovski”
Moments later, Volkanovski reiterated his request with more people around:
“Make [the] rematch happen? – Volkanovski”
“Yes, why not? – Makhachev”
“This time Abu Dhabi – Makhachev’s manager”
“Yes, that’s fair – Volkanovski”
Since their humble conversation shown above, the UFC 284 main event has continued to gain controversy. Volkanovski and his team have accused Makhachev of illegally using an IV to rehydrate after a brutal weight cut.
The IV accusations have led to confusion regarding what’s banned and what’s not banned by USADA. It’s unclear whether Makhachev will be acquitted or suspended. Nonetheless, an instant rematch between the UFC champions is possible.
Watch Alexander Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev discuss a possible rematch below:
Islam Makhachev is open to fighting Alexander Volkanovski again or another lightweight contender
Alexander Volkanovski gave Islam Makhachev his toughest test to date. Since there isn’t a clear-cut number-one lightweight contender, Volkanovski could find himself in a position to secure an instant rematch. Red Corner MMA translated this quote from Makhachev regarding the possibility of fighting ‘The Great’ next:
“I’m not going to wait for anybody or call anybody out. I’ll be ready as soon as the UFC gives me an opponent. No matter if it’s the rematch or another lightweight contender.”
Although an instant rematch would make sense, Volkanovski might return to his primary division. In the UFC 284 co-main event, Yair Rodriguez submitted Josh Emmett to secure the interim featherweight championship. There haven’t been many times that someone has defended an interim title, so Rodriguez and ‘The Great’ will likely fight for the undisputed throne next.
Meanwhile, Makhachev has fought in two championship fights over the last four months. With Ramadan starting in March, the lightweight champion is planning to rest until the end of April. While he’s recovering, Beneil Dariush and Charles Oliveira are expected to compete for the number one contender spot in May. The Russian might end up waiting to fight the winner between Oliveira and Dariush instead of Alexander Volkanovski.