Ali Abdelaziz Provides Grim Outlook On Islam Makhachev vs. Alex Volkanovski UFC Rematch
Islam Makhachev's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, isn't too keen on a potential rematch with Alex Volkanovski.
Earlier this year, Makhachev and UFC featherweight champion Volkanovski collided in the main event of UFC 284. The bout was highly competitive and lasted until the final horn sounded. Makhachev retained the UFC lightweight gold via unanimous decision, but it was far from easy for the Russian bruiser.
The bout left fans clamoring for more, but Makhachev has another rematch right around the corner. He will be taking on Charles Oliveira, a man who he beat around this time last year to capture the 155-pound title. The rematch will headline UFC 294 on October 21.
UFC champions Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski.
(via Brett Hemmings/Zuffa LLC)
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Should Makhachev once again set Oliveira back, some feel it could open the door for the Volkanovski rematch. If Abdelaziz had his way, however, Makhachev will move on from "The Great."
During an interview with "The Schmo," Makhachev's manager shared his belief that his fighter already proved he was the better man over Volkanovski.
"Brother, he beat the number one pound-for-pound fighter, he beat the number four pound-for-pound fighter Charles Oliveira," Abdelaziz said. "The only thing he have not did yet, kill somebody in the cage. Brother, it doesn't matter. He already beat Alexander Volkanovski, who cares? Now, you have Charles Oliveira, you have Justin Gaethje, you have Beneil Dariush. You have many guys contender, you understand? This guy, Alexander, he have his shot. It was a great fight. Islam only had 12 hours to hydrate, no excuse, still beat him, and the Australian hype is finished."
Volkanovski has been pounding the table for a rematch against Makhachev. He has suggested UFC 300 as a possible event for the two to settle things once and for all. Makhachev has said if the rematch were to happen, he feels it should be in Abu Dhabi since he went to enemy territory for the first encounter with Volkanovski.
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