UFC’s ‘Do Bronx’ is ready for retribution! Yes, we’re talking about Charles ‘Do Bronx’ Oliveira, the Brazilian UFC Middleweight star who’s always making headlines with his charisma and popularity. This time, however, the spotlight is also on his rival – current UFC lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev.

The duo is gearing up for a war at UFC 294, and sparks are already flying. Islam Makhachev has already taken his shot! Now, stirring the pot with his bold take is UFC Hall-of-Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin – Usman Nurmagomedov. Guess what? Makhachev and the younger Nurmagomedov have been training under the wing of ‘The Eagle’ for a long time now. So, what’s his bet for the clash between these warriors – slated for October 21st, in Abu Dhabi?

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin weighs in on his teammate’s war with Charles Oliveira

Usman Nurmagomedov recently sat down for an in-depth interview with ESPN’s Marc Raimondi. He has a big event coming up – Bellator’s landmark 300th PPV event, where he’s going to defend his lightweight title. Around four minutes into the interview, the 25-year-old Bellator star made a bold declaration about his bets for his Team Khabib partner’s UFC 294 war with ‘Do Bronx.’

Usman began by emphasizing the dedication and intelligence of Islam Makhachev in his training regimen, “Islam is training a lot. He is very intelligent.” Then, he highlighted the lightweight champ’s versatility and caliber in various facets of the fight game and its nuances. 

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This included the confidence that Makhachev could effectively defend takedowns. He also asserted that the lightweight champ can go toe-to-toe in striking exchanges with ‘Do Bronx,’ and navigate the ground game. All these are pivotal skills for his upcoming title defense. The 25-year-old asserted: “He can [easily tackle] takedowns, exchanges and submissions.”

Read More: “No Matter Who Wins”- Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje Not Favored Over Charles Oliveira for Title Shot Against Islam Makhachev for One Reason

But that’s not all! Usman’s final statement is perhaps the boldest. He concluded his POV, saying: “I don’t think Charles Oliveira can give him a hard situation.” Considering his own status as a Bellator lightweight champ – it seems like there’s some weight behind Khabib’s cousin’s bet on Islam Makhachev. But will his bet pay off?

Why is there speculation around ‘Do Bronx’s grappling prowess?

The first encounter between Makhachev and Oliveira left fans wondering about ‘Do Bronx’s’ grappling prowess. Despite the Brazilian’s staggering UFC record of 16 submissions wins – in their previous bout, Makhachev showcased superior skills both on the feet and on the mat. Oliveira’s BJJ skills were almost nullified, with his most notable moments occurring when he pressed forward and applied constant pressure.

If we look at Oliveira’s recent fights against rivals like TUF s31 coach Michael Chandler and Beneil Dariush, a pattern looms. When Oliveira finds his rhythm and applies relentless pressure – he overwhelms opponents with diverse striking and surprising power.

However, facing Makhachev demands a strategic approach. Oliveira must focus on pressing forward, establishing his range early, and conserving energy to inflict maximum damage. In their initial encounter, it was a flying knee attempt that resulted in Oliveira’s downfall, leading to a submission by Makhachev. Therefore, exercising caution while adhering to fundamental techniques might prove more effective for Oliveira in this rematch.

The big question remains: Can Oliveira withstand the onslaught from Makhachev and mount a triumphant comeback? As the countdown to UFC 294 begins, all eyes are on the electrifying clash between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev.

Will ‘Do Bronx’ defy the odds and emerge victorious, or will Makhachev’s superior skills once again secure him the title? What do you think? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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