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