Following his head-kick knockout loss at UFC 294, Islam Makhachev advised Alexander Volkanovski to take a couple of months’ rest due to the severity of the injury and the need to recover from the knockout, cautioning against his plans to fight Ilia Topuria in January and urging him to prioritize his health.
Alexander Volkanovski was originally slated to defend his featherweight title against Ilia Topuria at UFC 297, but fate had a different plan. Islam Makhachev’s devastating head-kick knockout victory at UFC 294 made him caution Volkanovski against rushing back into the Octagon. Makhachev stated that Volkanovski should take a couple of months’ rest to recover from the significant cut on his eye caused by the head kick. He emphasized that it was crucial for Volkanovski’s team, including his doctor and coaches, to make the right decision.
Meanwhile, Volkanovski expressed his desire to return in January and revealed his struggles with inactivity. The featherweight champion reluctantly accepted the short-notice rematch with Makhachev as he grew restless without a fight booking. However, Volkanovski’s plans might be hindered by a potential medical suspension due to his cut and knockout loss. The UFC, which self-regulated the event, usually follows the guidelines set by the Nevada Athletic Commission, leading to a possible 60-day suspension. Ultimately, it is up to the fighter and their coaches to enforce the suspension.
Volkanovski’s defeat against Makhachev at UFC 294 was his second loss to the lightweight champion, following a previous decision defeat at UFC 284. Despite their rivalry leading up to the bout, both fighters showed respect and cordiality towards each other backstage. Makhachev paid his respects to Volkanovski, acknowledging him as a true warrior and man of his word. Given his admiration for his opponent, Makhachev’s advice to Volkanovski to take a break and allow his brain to recover carried more weight.