Islam Makhachev is the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion who holds a solid MMA record of 24-1-0. The Russian fighter is gearing up for an epic rematch with Charles Oliveira (MMA Record-34-9-0). This highly anticipated clash is set to take place at UFC 294 on October 21 at the Etihad Arena.
Fans already know that their first encounter took place at UFC 280 on October 22, 2022. It was back then when the 31-year-old Makhachev secured the vacant UFC Lightweight Championship in the second round via an arm-triangle choke. The victory was quite one-sided as the 5ft 10in fighter dominated the arena throughout the fight.
Recently, reflecting on his previous bout with the Brazilian MMA fighter, Makhachev stated, “In the last fight, I took zero damage. I didn’t feel the power from Charles Oliveira… I’m gonna break him. When Charles feels the pressure and power, he gives up. Always.”
According to Makhachev, their first fight was relatively easy for him. It was mainly due to Charles Oliveira’s lack of power while fighting. This time again, Makhachev is determined to display his strength and fighting skills. He’s confident that he will win the battle again and retain his coveted title. Furthermore, he’s not afraid of Charles’ fighting skills.
Not long back, the 33-year-old Charles blamed UFC for choosing the rematch location in Abu Dhabi again. Not only did he point out UFC but also his opponent Islam Makhachev as it’s the same location where he faced defeat against his opponent Makhachev. Although, Islam clarified Charles’ doubts in a social media post.
For now, as fans eagerly await UFC 294, they’re expecting a thrilling rematch in the upcoming event. However, the question remains the same, that is, will Charles Oliveira be able to prove Makhachev wrong?
The reigning UFC Lightweight ChampionIslam Islam Makhachev shares his plans after the Charles Oliveira rematch at UFC 294
The current Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has set his sights on achieving double-champ status. Fans might feel surprised after knowing this, however, the Russian fighter, following UFC 294, is looking forward to facing some of the big names.
Makhachev’s last victory came against UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284 in February 2023. It made his first successful title defense.
Recently, in an interview, the 31-year-old fighter expressed his desire to face the winner of the upcoming Welterweight title clash at UFC 296, scheduled for December 16, 2023. As per UFC CEO Dana White, the bout will feature the reigning champion, Leon Edwards, and challenger Colby Covington.
Islam Makhachev revealed his aspiration for a second championship belt, saying, “I don’t know what the UFC has planned, but my dream fight is for the second belt.” He confidently asserted that he owns skills and can defeat the winner easily. Makhachev is aiming to achieve something bigger in his career and he can do it only by winning a second title.