The highly anticipated rematch between Charles Oliveira and his nemesis, Islam Makhachev, has been derailed due to ‘Do Bronx’ suffering an injury. Alex Volkanovski has stepped up as a backup fighter to face Islam Makhachev. What was supposed to be a rematch between Makhachev and Oliveira has now become a rematch between Makhachev and Volkanovski. The Australian fighter has a chance to redeem himself, but with such short notice, it will be a tough challenge.

‘Do Bronx’, found himself in the most recent lineup of fighters who withdrew from the impending clash just days before the anticipated match. The culprit? A nasty cut on his eyebrow. With the Russo-Brazilian card, all messed up due to injuries, team Makhachev is in anger. Let’s see what Makhachev’s team had to say about that.

Ali Abdelaziz criticizes Charles Oliveira’s withdrawal and confirms Justin Gaethje’s title shot opportunity

It appears that Charles Oliveira missed his chance to reclaim his title shot, and Alex Volkanovski is currently on a path towards potential glory in the UFC. Notably, Ali Abdelaziz has already proclaimed Islam Makhachev as the victor of UFC 294 and has confidently declared that Justin Gaethje is now working his way towards earning a title shot against Makhachev. This turn of events in the UFC lightweight division is creating quite a buzz among fight fans.

In a previous interview, Abdelaziz asserted that Gaethje would secure his title shot following Oliveira. Gaethje has patiently awaited this opportunity, and with Oliveira’s withdrawal, his position appears to have solidified. However, everything hinges on Makhachev’s victory over Volkanovski.

The manager recently took to X(Formerly Twitter)to express disapproval of Charles Oliveira’s decision to withdraw from the match. In his criticism, he drew a comparison to Frankie Edgar’s contest against Jose Aldo, sharing a photograph of an injured Edgar and asserting that this image depicted Edgar prior to his bout with Aldo.

His tweet quoted ” This is Frankie Edgar 8 days before he fought Jose Aldo. Charles missed his opportunity, Justin Gaethje is next for the title”. Abdelaziz emphasized that despite Edgar’s injury he fought Aldo but Oliveira pulled out.

Islam Makhachev heaps praise Volkanovski

Islam Makhachev did not hold back upon hearing the news of Charles Oliveira’s withdrawal. The current champion was furious about the news. However, he praised Alex Volkanovski for his sportsmanship in taking the fight on such short notice and warned him that he wouldn’t go easy on the Australian.

Makhachev in the statement added “Respect for taking this fight on short notice Alex, but don’t use it as an excuse after the fight.” Before this UFC 294 hubbub, Volkanovski was supposed to face Ilia Topuria for a title match.

Read More: “Don’t Use It as an Excuse”- Islam Makhachev and Team Khabib Break Silence as Alexander Volkanovski Replaces Charles Oliveira After Injury Strikes UFC 294

With the lightweight title shot now in his sights, Volkanovski will be eager to rewrite the narrative of his past experiences in Australia. Defeating Makhachev in his own territory is likely the singular dream he harbors. What are your expectations from Alex Volkanovski against Islam Makhachev? DO tell us in the comments below.

Watch this story: Arnold Schwarzenegger, 76, Still Can’t Get Rid Of A “Boy Toy” He Had As An 18-Year-Old