Makhachev takes matters into his own hands, calls out welterweight champion Leon Edwards

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is gearing up for his next big fight. After a hard-fought win over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284.

Islam Makhachev in a file photo [Image Credit: Instagram@islam_makhachev]
By Mohit | Jul 20, 2023 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is gearing up for his next big fight. After a hard-fought win over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284. Makhachev’s next opponent is a hot topic in the MMA world. While there are several options on the table but nothing has been set in stone just yet.

One of the obvious choices for Makhachev’s next fight was a rematch with Charles Oliveira. The former champion whom Makhachev defeated for the 155-pound belt last year. However, Oliveira recently announced that he wouldn’t be ready to face Makhachev in three months. This leaves the door open for other contenders.

Another fighter seeking redemption is Alexander Volkanovski. After his loss to Makhachev, Volkanovski returned to the featherweight division and put on a dominant performance against Yair Rodriguez at UFC 290. Now, he’s eager for a rematch and has even undergone elbow surgery to prepare for the potential opportunity to avenge his loss.

Makhachev takes matters into his own hands, calls out welterweight champion Leon Edwards

The upcoming UFC 291 event is headlined by a “BMF” title fight between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje. Both fighters are skilled and could make a strong case for a title shot if they emerge victorious. However, a quick turnaround for either of them to face Makhachev in Abu Dhabi might be challenging. Considering the intensity of their fight.

In the midst of uncertainty regarding his next opponent. Makhachev took matters into his own hands and called out UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards. Pursuing a dual-champ status had been on Makhachev’s mind. But he wanted to establish himself firmly as the lightweight champion before moving up in weight. However, the current situation has him eager to expedite his plans and explore new challenges.

Makhachev’s star continues to rise and he’s becoming a sought-after opponent in the lightweight division. Regardless of who steps into the Octagon against him at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi on October 21. They’ll face a highly skilled and determined champion.

Makhachev’s journey to the top of the lightweight division has been impressive. He shows no signs of slowing down. His upcoming title defense promises to be a thrilling showdown and he’s ready to take on any challenger that comes his way.

Whether it’s a rematch with Oliveira, a revenge bout with Volkanovski, a face-off with the winner of Poirier vs. Gaethje, or even a potential super-fight with welterweight champion Edwards. Makhachev is prepared to prove himself on the biggest stage of MMA.

For more UFC news and updates

Read: Daniel Cormier believes fans are going to be ‘very disappointed’ with Islam Makhachev’s next fight

Read: Cannonier Dominates Vettori at UFC Vegas 75: What’s Next for the Fighters?

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