Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira full of respect for one another as they meet up following recent UFC 280 clash
Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira went to war for the UFC lightweight title last night at UFC 280 in Abu Dhabi. The Russian-born fighter was able to fulfill a lifelong goal and was crowned the world champion following a second-round submission.
The matchup was arguably the most anticipated lightweight title fight since Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor. ‘The Eagle’ himself was in Makhachev’s corner during the UFC 280 fight and was able to witness his longtime friend and protégé win the title he relinquished in 2020.
There was a surprising amount of trash talk between ‘do Bronx’ and Makhachev, considering the stoic and respectful nature that both fighters normally exude. ‘The Eagle’ also got a bit involved when he tweeted that he didn’t believe Oliveira would show up to the main event in Abu Dhabi.
But there seems to be nothing but respect between the two lightweights in the aftermath of their fight. A photo was posted by the UFC of Makhachev and Oliveira together, which was then retweeted by the newly minted champion.
“Nothing but respect”
Islam Makhachev’s dominant performance over ‘do Bronx’ may have surprised many people, and it may be the beginning of a new era of Russian-dominace at 155 lbs.
But Oliveira has vowed that he will bounce back stronger than ever and is certain that he will meet the Russian fighter once again.
Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski will fight for P4P #1 spot and lightweight title in Australia
Islam Makhachev is the new UFC lightweight champion, following an immaculate performance against a formidable opponent in Charles Oliveira.
Current UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski was the emergency replacement for the fight between Makhachev and ‘do Bronx’ and was in attendance at the Etihad Arena.
‘The Great’ has aspirations of securing a UFC title in another weight class and is now set to face Makhachev for the lightweight title. During the champion’s post-fight speech in the octagon with Daniel Cormier, he was asked if there was anything he wanted to say to Volkanovski. He replied with:
“I didn’t see this short guy bring him here.”
‘The Great’ then entered the octagon and was asked if he was interested in a fight with Makhachev in Australia. ‘The Great’ retorted with:
“Let’s do it! The lightweight on the line and the pound-for-pound No.1 on the line. Let’s do it.”
Volkanovski is currently the No.1 pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC. He is willing to put the prestigious featherweight title on the line against Islam Makhachev in order to attain double champ status.
Watch the video below: