Islam Makhachev will defend his lightweight title against Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC’s annual trip to Abu Dhabi, marking their second meeting for the 155-pound gold.
Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira are readying for a lightweight title fight, headlining UFC 294. This marks the second time these athletes will face each other in the main event during the UFC’s annual voyage to Abu Dhabi. Makhachev, currently the champion, will defend his title against Oliveira, with the fight scheduled for October 21 at Etihad Arena. Both fighters have already made their appearance on the UFC 294 poster as they prepare to square off for the 155-pound gold.
The rematch between Makhachev and Oliveira generates significant interest due to their previous bout at UFC 280. In that encounter, Makhachev successfully captured the championship after defeating Oliveira. This time, Oliveira seeks redemption, earning a second shot at the title following a first-round victory over Beneil Dariush at UFC 289 in June. Therefore, this will be Makhachev’s second title defense while Oliveira hopes to turn his fortunes around in their second meeting.
UFC 294 will also feature the return of Khamzat Chimaev marking his first appearance since his swift first-round submission victory against Kevin Holland at UFC 279 in September 2022. The anticipation is high as he gears up to face Paulo Costa in a crucial middleweight co-main event. Here is the current UFC 294 lineup (final bout order is yet to be decided): Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira – lightweight title fight; Khamzat Chimaev vs. Paulo Costa; Tim Elliott vs. Muhammad Mokaev; Nassourdine Imavov vs. Ikram Aliskerov; Magomed Ankalaev vs. Johnny Walker; Said Nurmagomedov vs. Muin Gafurov; Abu Azaitar vs. Sedriques Dumas; Jinh Yu Frey vs. Victoria Dudakova; Bruno Silva vs. Sharabutdin Magomedov; Trevor Peek vs. Mohammad Yahya; Nathaniel Wood vs. Muhammad Naimov; Victor Henry vs. Javid Basharat and Anshul Jubli vs. Mike Breeden.