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Islam Makhachev took on Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294 for a ‘champ vs champ’ rematch. The previous fight between the two at UFC 284 saw Makhachev secure a win via decision. Many fans believed that Volkanovski won the fight. Joe Rogan, UFC commentator and podcaster, also echoed the sentiments of the fans. He elaborated on an episode of the Joe Rogan Experience (JRE) MMA Show with Sean O’Malley and his coach, Tim Welch.

Volkanovski took the fight against Makhachev at UFC 294 on short notice. Charles Oliveira, the original opponent for Makhachev, was unable to fight due to an injury during training camp. However, Makhachev silenced his doubters by finishing Volkanovski in the first round. Rogan and his reaction to the win has caused a flurry of reaction online by fans. And many pointed out that Rogan might be upset at what transpired at UFC 294!

Islam Makhachev knocks out Alexander Volkanovski and fans believe Joe Rogan is upset at the result

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Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski’s first fight saw the two men engage in a closely contested bout. While Makhachev had his moments, Volkanovski wasn’t too far behind as he survived Makhachev taking his back. And he also caught the Dagestani fighter on his feet and followed up with heavy ground and pound. Ultimately, Makhachev was declared the winner via decision.

Joe Rogan, who had previously stated that he believed that Volkanovski won the fight, wasn’t present as a commentator for the rematch. However, his reactions to the fight on his Fight Companion podcast were captured and shared online.

Rogan can be seen reacting to a video of Islam Makhachev delivering a head kick to Alexander Volkanovski to win the fight. He expressed astonishment and excitement, emphasizing the perfection of the technique and Makhachev’s display of new skills. But fans were quick to point out that Rogan might be upset at the events that transpired!

 

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Here’s how the fans reacted. They noticed Joe Rogan’s apparent disappointment while watching UFC 294, suggesting he might be a secret fan of Alexander Volkanovski.

“Look how upset he was. Closeted volk fanboy”

Some also teased him and pointed out his facial expressions.

“Joe is so upset haha”

“Give Joe a tissue”

Others pointed out that 2023 has seen a lot of head-kick knockouts in the UFC.

“2023 : The year of headkick”

Some also questioned Rogan and his expressions.

“His face doesn’t say he’s happy for Islam”

Yet, others expressed gratitude to Islam Makhachev for silencing his critics and pointed out that he dispelled any doubts.

“Thanks Islam to shutting up this haters”

“All doubts were cleared…”

Some fans even made humorous comments that Makhachev might have been aiming for Volkanovski’s body due to the height difference!

“Tbh Volk is really short, Islam was probably aiming for the body”

In conclusion, fans had a range of reactions to Joe Rogan’s response to the fights at UFC 294, with some playfully teasing him and others expressing gratitude to Makhachev for his performance.

Makhachev and his head-kick knockout of Alexander Volkanovski have added another layer to his claims of being the best MMA fighter on the planet. He has previously stated that he is looking for challenges at a higher weight class too!

Makhachev is aiming to cement his legacy as a two-weight UFC champion

Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion, has expressed his aspiration to claim a second UFC title. While he previously hinted at a possible move to the welterweight division, it seems that the prospect of becoming a double champion is firmly in his sights.

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In fact, Makhachev has stated that he is willing to stay prepared and ready to step into the UFC 296 main event, featuring the current welterweight champion, Leon Edwards, and Colby Covington. He revealed his goals during a press conference prior to UFC 294.

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He stated, “If they call me, I will be ready for Colby or Leon, [I’m ready for] any fights. But my dream, my goal, I want a second belt.”

Read More: Islam Makhachev Refuses to Celebrate His Win for This Reason After Leaving Alexander Volkanovski Heartbroken With Worst Career Loss at UFC 294

Although accumulating title defenses in the lightweight division is important to him, Makhachev recognizes the extraordinary achievement of holding a second championship in a different weight class. And with the challenges that come with moving up a weight class, it remains to be seen how he will perform against top UFC welterweights.

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Do you think Islam Makhachev can become ‘champ-champ’ in the UFC? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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