UFC 294, which was initially seen as a lesser card, has become highly anticipated with the replacement of injured fighters Charles Oliveira and Paulo Costa with Alexander Volkanovski and Kamaru Usman, resulting in potentially dramatic changes to the championship pictures in two divisions.
UFC 294 was initially overshadowed by the marquee matchups announced for UFC 295 and 296. However, the card quickly became one of the most talked-about events of 2023 due to last-minute changes. Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira 2 and Paulo Costa vs. Khamzat Chimaev were the original main and co-main events. But both Oliveira and Costa had to withdraw due to injuries, leading to the inclusion of Alexander Volkanovski and Kamaru Usman.
The addition of Volkanovski and Usman to the card has elevated UFC 294 to new heights. The rematch between Makhachev and Volkanovski is highly anticipated, as it brings together two of the best fighters in the world. While some fans were looking forward to seeing Volkanovski face off against Ilia Topuria in the future, the opportunity to witness the same matchup take place at UFC 294 is a rare and exciting occurrence. Usman stepping in to fight Chimaev is also an intriguing match, offering a fresh dynamic compared to the original Costa vs. Chimaev bout.
While the changes have undoubtedly made UFC 294 more exciting, there are differing opinions on whether the card is better or stays the same. Some argue that the new main event between Volkanovski and Makhachev is more intriguing than the original Oliveira matchup. Volkanovski’s close fight with Makhachev at UFC 284 and his past accomplishments make this rematch a must-watch. As for the co-main event, while Costa vs. Chimaev had its own appeal, Usman’s inclusion brings his welterweight credentials and potential future at middleweight into question.
In terms of the main event, Makhachev has more to lose as the reigning lightweight champion. A loss to Volkanovski, who accepted the fight on short notice, could derail Makhachev’s title reign and halt his ascent in the division. Volkanovski, on the other hand, has nothing to lose and everything to gain. He already gave Makhachev a tough fight in their first encounter, and a victory this time would solidify his status as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters.
Overall, despite the upheaval caused by injuries, UFC 294 has become one of the most anticipated cards of the year. The inclusion of Volkanovski and Usman has added excitement, and the main event holds high stakes for both fighters. Fans can expect an unexpected and thrilling lineup on October 21st.