The UFC 294 main event has undergone a major change, as featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski will replace the injured Charles Oliveira and face lightweight champion Islam Makhachev on short notice. The fight will take place on October 21 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Oliveira suffers a gruesome cut
Oliveira was originally scheduled to rematch Makhachev for the lightweight title, after losing to him by second-round submission at UFC 280 in January. However, Oliveira suffered a nasty cut above his right eye during training and was forced to withdraw from the bout. He posted a photo of his injury on social media, showing a deep gash that required stitches.
Oliveira expressed his disappointment and frustration over the situation, saying that he was ready to reclaim his belt and prove himself against Makhachev. He also wished Volkanovski good luck and said that he would be watching the fight closely.
Volkanovski gets a second chance at history
Volkanovski, who is coming off a successful title defense against Yair Rodriguez at UFC 290 in July, did not hesitate to accept the opportunity to face Makhachev on short notice. He said that he was in good shape and confident that he could beat Makhachev and become a two-division champion.
Volkanovski and Makhachev have already fought once before, at UFC 284 in February, where Makhachev won by unanimous decision in a close and competitive fight. Volkanovski said that he felt he did enough to win that night and that he was eager to get a rematch and settle the score.
Volkanovski also said that he was not worried about the weight cut or the travel, as he had done it before when he fought Max Holloway in Abu Dhabi last year. He said that he was focused on making history and putting on a show for the fans.
Makhachev welcomes the challenge
Makhachev, who has not fought since defeating Oliveira at UFC 280, said that he was surprised by Oliveira’s withdrawal but respected his decision. He said that he hoped Oliveira would recover soon and that they could fight again in the future.
Makhachev also praised Volkanovski for stepping up and taking the fight on short notice. He said that he was impressed by Volkanovski’s courage and skill, but that he was still confident that he would retain his title. He said that he was ready for any opponent and any challenge, as he had learned from his mentor and friend Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Makhachev also said that he was excited to headline UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi for the second year in a row, as he felt a strong connection with the fans there. He said that he wanted to put on a great performance and make them proud.
UFC 294: Makhachev vs Volkanovski 2 is expected to be one of the biggest events of the year, as two champions collide in a rematch for the lightweight title. The card will also feature other exciting bouts, such as Robert Whittaker vs Darren Till, Valentina Shevchenko vs Jessica Andrade, and Khamzat Chimaev vs Leon Edwards.
