Charles Oliveira was originally set to face Islam Makhachev at UFC 294. But a cut above his eye sustained during a sparring session forced Oliveira out of the fight just weeks out from the event. This led to Alexander Volkanovski stepping up to replace him on short notice. But now, Oliveira might be up for another run at reclaiming his belt!

Oliveira first clashed against Makhachev at UFC 280. The fight was for the vacant lightweight title as Oliveira had lost the belt on the scales before his fight with Justin Gaethje at UFC 274. Makhachev submitted Oliveira in the fight to claim the title. Now, reports indicate that Oliveira and Makhachev will rematch on the upcoming UFC 297 card. But fan reactions indicate that the community isn’t sure if Oliveira should get another shot at the belt!

Charles Oliveira gets a shot at revenge but fan sentiments are divided 

The news of the rematch between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev has come as a surprise to MMA fans. Despite their matchup at UFC 294 being derailed due to an unfortunate sparring accident, Ariel Helwani has reported that the two men will now be headlining UFC 297 in Toronto.

Alexander Volkanovski, who stepped up to Makhachev as a replacement for Oliveira, lost the fight via a head-kick knockout at UFC 294. Despite the loss, fans were hoping to see ‘The Great’ return to featherweight and face rising contender Ilia Topuria in January. But according to Helwani, that fight has now been pushed back and scheduled for February.

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Despite there being no official confirmation, Helwani revealed that Oliveira vs. Makhachev will be the main event for the January 20 card in Toronto. The news has caused a stir amongst the fans who had a mixed response to the news.

Here’s how the fans reacted:

Many fans acknowledge their support for Charles Oliveira but anticipate Islam Makhachev’s era to persist.

Some are willing to bet on Makhachev and believe it’s worth the risk.

Divided opinions about the rematch exist, with some suggesting Gaethje should challenge for the title.

Some fans question the excitement surrounding the rematch, noting that the first fight was one-sided and non-competitive.

A few fans express doubt about Charles Oliveira’s chances.

Some fans prefer to see a different contender for Makhachev.

The fans have mixed feelings about the proposed rematch between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev. While some support it, others are skeptical, and they question the competitiveness of the first fight. The outcome remains a topic of debate among MMA enthusiasts. Nevertheless, Makhachev’s performance at UFC 294 has only strengthened Oliveira’s resolve to reclaim his position at the top of the lightweight division! 

Oliveira was impressed by Makhachev’s performance at UFC 294

After UFC 294, Charles Oliveira couldn’t help but recognize Islam Makhachev’s formidable strength. In their first encounter at UFC 280, Makhachev submitted Oliveira in the second round. Ultimately securing the vacant belt and denying Oliveira’s attempt at championship glory. And even though he couldn’t be present at Abu Dhabi for UFC 294, Oliveira has stated his admiration for both competitors, especially Makhachev.

He acknowledges the evolution in Makhachev’s stand-up game and praises his strategic adaptability during the fight. Oliveira gives credit to Makhachev for his performance. He stated, “This only goes to show with the things that I’ve said before, the evolution of Islam’s game standing up. What a read that he had of that fight. Start kicking low and just ended up kicking high.”

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In conclusion, Charles Oliveira expresses respect for both fighters and highlights Makhachev’s development as an MMA athlete. But he is confident in his skills in the upcoming rematch. Despite the fans being unsure of Oliveira’s chances in the rematch, ‘Do Bronx’ will be looking to claim his lost title.

Do you think Charles Oliveira will perform better than he did previously against Islam Makhachev? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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