UFC 294 finally concluded at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Apart from the main cards, a slew of preliminary card bouts kept the viewers glued to their seats. But the highlight of the event remained the Lightweight and Middleweight bouts between four of the franchise’s biggest names. While Islam Makhachev took on Alexander Volkanovski, Khamzat Chimaev squared up against Kamaru Usman.

As it happened, Makhachev and Chimaev both scored decisive wins over their opponents. The milling crowd in the arena and scores of fans across the globe erupted into utter jubilation. Among the many who congratulated the duo over their accomplishment was another stalwart who has made a name for himself in boxing’s Light Heavyweight division. Artur Beterbiev congratulated the fighters. The unbeaten champion, with a 100% knockout-win rate, withdrew from a title defense in July due to a bone infection afflicting his jaw.

Well-deserved wins: Artur Beterbiev wishes MMA stars

Artur Beterbiev, the Canadian-Russian boxer, defended his titles against Anthony Yarde early this January. Subsequently, as per WBC directives, he needed to go for another defense against former Super Middleweight champion Callum Smith. Though initially scheduled for August 19 in his home country, Canada, the fight was postponed on July 30 due to Beterbiev’s jaw infection. As per the available updates, the battle will now take place on January 13.

Beterbiev took to his Instagram story, first addressing Khamzat Chimaev, and wrote, “Gave the last berkate yoila.” Then, wishing ‘Borz’ added, “Congratulations on your victory.” Appreciating Islam Makhachev in the second story, Beterbiev said, “Congratulations on a beautiful and confident victory!”

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A string of victories

It would be interesting to note that Makhachev and Chimaev fought fighters who replaced their initially scheduled opponents. The Lightweight champion was supposed to face Charles Oliveira for the rematch. The duo last fought roughly a year ago at the same venue, where the Russian defeated the Brazilian by a second-round submission. However, Oliveira pulled out, citing injuries, thus Alexander Volkanovski, the UFC Featherweight champion, stepped in.

Volkanovski and Makhachev had faced each other earlier this year in Perth, Australia, for UFC 284, where the latter prevailed unanimously. However, the Sambo specialist closed the business within the first round at the Etihad Arena with a head kick and punch combo.

Likewise, Khamzat Chimaev had a bout scheduled with Paulo Costa. But the Brazilian had to back out since he had elbow surgery. Thus, former champion Kamaru Usman entered the octagon. The Middleweight clash lasted five rounds, and Chimaev emerged the winner by a majority decision.

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Do you think Callum Smith could do the unthinkable and dislodge Beterbiev when they meet in January next year? Please share your views with us in the comments below.

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