Is Islam Makhachev fighting in October in Abu Dhabi? If yes, who is he going to face? Fans expected these questions to be answered as we move closer to October. However, we are just 3 months away, and the fans still remain puzzled as ever. The two main potential challengers for Makhachev’s lightweight title were Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski.
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After an impressive win over Beneil Dariush, Oliveira has not been very vocal about facing Makhachev next. He has not called out the champion, and there is no concrete talk except for rumors. Alexander Volkanovski, on the other hand, has faced a setback in his latest victory at UFC 290.
Islam Makhachev left with no opponents?
For months now, Volkanovski repeatedly made it clear that he wanted to fight Makhachev after defending his title against Yair Rodriguez. The Great was able to defeat Rodriguez, but he cannot face Makhachev anytime soon! Why? Because the featherweight champion has an arm injury that needs surgery.
If Oliveira is steadfast about not facing Islam in October and Volkanovski is having arm surgery, the options for Makhachev in Abu Dhabi are starting to drop off.
— Aaron Bronsteter (@aaronbronsteter) July 9, 2023
According to Aaron Bronsteter’s latest tweet, Volkanovski’s injury and Oliveira’s reluctance leaves the Russian champ with fewer options. “If Oliveira is steadfast about not facing Islam in October and Volkanovski is having arm surgery, the options for Makhachev in Abu Dhabi are starting to drop off.”
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Fans were quick to react to this Twitter update, and debates about Makhachev’s next opponent started soon.
Fans are debating about who should face the lightweight champ next
Fight fans across the world gave their opinions about who they think should fight Makhachev next. Many of them stated that the winner of Justin Gaethje vs Dustin Poirier should be the next title challenger.
Others thought that Beneil Dariush should be given a chance. Moreover, there were several other unique opinions as well. Here are some of the fan reactions –
The BMF winner is the answer
— Ovin Vithanage (@OvinVithanage) July 9, 2023
Many fans want the next BMF champ to fight for the lightweight title!
Poirier/Gaethje winner, easy
— Vincent (@VincentElisar) July 9, 2023
Meanwhile, some even suggested a welterweight move!
Leon Edwards can’t seem to get a fight, either. Just thinking out loud.
— Austin Swaim (@ASwaim3) July 9, 2023
Others proposed a rematch for Makhachev.
Tsarukyan rematch is easy choice if Charles isn’t ready.
— Capping Service (@CappingService) July 9, 2023
Fans really want to see Makhachev vs Tsarukyan.
Tsarukyan rematch is easy choice if Charles isn’t ready.
— Capping Service (@CappingService) July 9, 2023
Or maybe a fight against Mateusz Gamrot?
Arman Tsarukyan is available. They have a history. Gamrot too. If Oliveira doesn't to fight, that's the options there.
— Bruno Massami (Бруно Массами) (@BrMassami) July 9, 2023
Makhachev vs Edwards?
Or maybe Conor McGregor vs the Russian champ?
Kick rocks, USADA. Let’s do it, @TheNotoriousMMA vs Islam in Abu Dhabi 😂 pic.twitter.com/l2VdZ96th8
— AFeldmanMMA (@afeldMMA) July 9, 2023
Further, some even considered a fight against Beneil Dariush!
What is your opinion? Who should face Islam Makhachev next? Let us know in the comments below.
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