Islam Makhachev was willing to fight anyone as a replacement opponent for Charles Oliveira, expressing his eagerness to fight in Abu Dhabi, regardless of his opponent’s identity, and ultimately agreeing to a rematch with Alexander Volkanovski after the UFC couldn’t secure another replacement on short notice.
Islam Makhachev’s main focus was simply to fight, regardless of who his opponent would be. When he discovered that Charles Oliveira had to withdraw from their scheduled rematch at UFC 294 due to a serious cut suffered during training, Makhachev’s immediate reaction was indifference towards the replacement. However, the UFC managed to secure Alexander Volkanovski, the reigning featherweight champion, as Makhachev’s new adversary. Despite their previous closely contested bout in February, Makhachev was determined to step into the octagon once again, especially after months of intense training. The news of the unexpected change was conveyed to Makhachev by his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, who informed him of the rematch with Volkanovski to be held in the second round in Abu Dhabi.
Initially, the UFC explored other options for Makhachev’s new opponent, considering the limited time available before the fight. Justin Gaethje was among the candidates considered, but due to the short notice, he declined the opportunity to fight, citing concerns about making weight. Makhachev expressed his preference for fighting someone within the division rankings. However, as the self-proclaimed best in the world, he trusted the UFC’s decision and would sign the contract regardless of who he was facing. While Gaethje seemed like the appropriate contender, his recent knockout victory over Dustin Poirier in July and the timing didn’t align for him to accept the fight.
Makhachev had initially anticipated Mateusz Gamrot as a potential opponent, as he had accepted the role of backup to the main event fight at UFC 294. However, it was later revealed that Gamrot did not ultimately secure the opportunity to face Makhachev. Consequently, when the UFC announced Volkanovski as the replacement, Makhachev was not surprised, acknowledging that the champion often stepped up to fight on short notice purely for financial gain without putting his belt on the line. Despite the circumstances leading to their rematch, both Makhachev and Volkanovski have much at stake in the fight. Makhachev aims to solidify his victory over Volkanovski and answer any lingering questions, while the champion seeks redemption and to avenge his previous loss.
Ultimately, Makhachev expressed satisfaction with the prospect of fighting Volkanovski once again, believing that Abu Dhabi would provide the platform to address any unresolved queries stemming from their previous encounter.