UFC 294 was on the brink of becoming the most disappointing card due to the uncertainty around the main and co-main events. However, Dana White’s steadfast response saved the day, with both Alexander Volkanovski and Kamaru Usman stepping up to fight Islam Makhachev and Khamzat Chimaev on short notice.
Alexander Volkanovski is on a mission to dethrone Islam Makhachev and take his lightweight title. Volkanovski stepped up to fight Makhachev on just 11 days’ notice after Charles Oliveira pulled out due to injury. With only 11 days to prepare, even the ‘great’ may find it challenging to face Makhachev. However, Volkanovski appears to be optimistic about his match.
Fan reactions and varied expectations for Alexander Volkanovski vs. Islam Makhachev
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In their last bout, Alexander Volkanovski emerged as a fighter who could push Islam Makhachev to his utmost limits. Despite being of a different weight class Volkanovski dominated Makhachev, leaving a lasting impression. Although he failed to emerge victorious, it was clear that the ‘great’ was not afraid of challenges, truly justifying his nickname.
In his most recent escapade ‘Volk’ was interviewed by prominent sports personality Ariel Helwani on the MMAfightingonsbn YouTube channel. While in conversation, Helwani asked about his opinion on his rematch with Makhachev. Helwani added “What do you believe is going to happen?
Volkanovski was clear in his response. He added ” I believe finish him, you know what I mean. Again, I think this is, you’re going to see a real, probably one of the most dangerous Volkanovski you’ve ever seen, just purely because I can’t afford to do anything else, you know what I mean. That’s how I’m looking at it, and I want to look at it that way. So it’s like, I’m looking at it like, “All right, let’s do this,” you know? We’re going in for the kill.”
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The internet was set ablaze by Volkanovski’s statement. Netizens took to the web to express their opinion on ‘Volk’s statement. Some of the comments are as follows:-
Volk either gonna knock him out or get subbed imo. Gonna be a war
My heart is with Volk. My drafting is with islam
Not much of a fan of either one of them but i think islam gets the finish this time
Volk better well rounded fighter than gsp and i believe he will prove that against islam
For most fighters i’d say all this talk is nonsense
But its Volk. Lol you can’t help but believe that man a little
I’m not doubting volk especially when he gets a second try
My heart say islam but my mind and bet says Volk. Bolk by 2nd round via tko
Clearly, they are not surprised by Volkanovski’s statement. Netizens have a diversified opinion on the upcoming match, with a few believing Makhachev will be winning the match but also stating that Volkanovski has a fair chance of winning. Nevertheless, Volkanovski is optimistic about not committing the mistakes of their first faceoff.
The fateful first encounter between Alexender Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev
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Their first encounter was nothing less than a rollercoaster of a fight that happened in Australia. Both Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski came blazing guns against each other. It was a fight between equals, despite different weight classes facing each other in the UFC. Initially, the fight started off with both the fighters showing equal fighting spirit. The fight went to distance with both of them showing dominance through their skill and grit.
Makhachev employed his wrestling and grappling skills to dominate Volkanovski. However, it was not enough to bring the ‘great’ down. In the end, Makhavchev emerged victorious through a unanimous decision. Now Volkanovski has a chance to redeem himself, and he must be looking to defeat Makhachev on his own home turf. However, things will be difficult for him.
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What do you think? Who will emerge victorious? Do tell us in the comments below.
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