UFC 284 was a memorable event for many reasons. UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev defeated Alexander Volkanovski in one of the best fights of 2023. While the Dagestani fighter enjoyed his first successful title defense, many raised questions about the legitimacy of the judge’s decision. Moreover, famous MMA pundits like Joe Rogan expressed their opinion that Volkanovski had won the fight. Also, if this wasn’t enough, another major controversy arose for Makhachev soon afterward.

Shortly after his victory, a UFC star publicly accused the lightweight champion of using an IV dosage before the fight. Going so far as calling Islam a “cheating dog”. This accusation spread like wildfire, drawing the ire of numerous fans. Now, Several months later, as Makhachev prepares for a highly anticipated rematch against Alexander Volkanovski, the lingering specter of the IV controversy continues to resonate in the collective memory. This time, Volkanovski brings the accusations back again to the forefront.

Alexander Volkanovski questions Islam Makhachev over IV controversy

At the upcoming UFC 294 event, Makhachev is once again going to defend his title against ‘The Great’. Earlier, it was Charles Oliveira who was going to face the Russian. However, due to an unexpected injury, he withdrew from the fight. Replacing him, entered the featherweight champ.

In the recent UFC 294 press conference, Makhachev and Volkanovski had some heated exchanges. One of which was about the popular IV controversy. For those unaware, it was UFC star Dan Hooker who accused the lightweight champion of taking an IV dosage before the fight. Taking to Twitter (now X), Hooker alleged that Makhachev tried to rehydrate using an IV while in Australia, despite the UFC’s ban on this practice during weight cuts.

In a fiery tweet, Hooker stated, “Dumb c— thinks he can fly to Australia, hire a nurse to give him an I.V, and we won’t find out. Cheating dog.” 

Apparently, Makhachev was referring to the comfortable timing and schedule of the UFC 294 event, compared to the tedious UFC 284 PPV that started early. Soon, Volkanovski questioned his opponent, “What things? Get it out there, what things,” he said. Further, he took shots at Makhachev’s hydration process. “You are telling me 30-something hours are not enough (to rehydrate)?”

However, Jeff Novitzky, UFC’s Senior Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance, took to Twitter (now, X) back in February to clarify the situation.

In a discussion with UFC play-by-play announcer Brendan Fitzgerald, Novitzky addressed the controversy surrounding Islam Makhachev’s use of IV and exonerated the Dagestani fighter, referencing the commission’s report. Novitzky stated, “The Australian Commission issued a statement last night indicating that there is no substantial evidence suggesting he violated any of their regulations. I believe it’s best to leave it at that.”

Read More – After UFC-USADA Partnership Breakdown, What Consequences Does Islam Makhachev Face for IV Controversy

How did Islam Makhachev react to his IV controversy?

Soon after his UFC 284 victory, Makhachev cleared the air around his IV controversy. In a public interview, the Russian fighter denied any problems with the UFC or USADA. Further, he revealed that the anti-doping agency tested him four times before and after the fight. “UFC works with the expert organization USADA. Before and after the fight, I was tested four times in total. Somebody posted a picture with a bruise on my vein.”

Going ahead, the Dagestani champ took a shot at fighters who stood against him in this controversy. “Some fighters are trying to push this narrative, but the UFC and USADA have no issues with me,” he said.

The most recent UFC fighter to receive a penalty for using an IV was middleweight Paulo Costa. He was handed a six-month suspension due to his unauthorized use of an IV on two occasions in 2017. Typically, fighters who use IVs face a standard two-year suspension, but Costa’s punishment was shortened because he cooperated with USADA and provided significant assistance. Notably, UFC legend BJ Penn was also suspended for six months in 2016 for IV use, though he later claimed to be unaware that such use was prohibited.

As UFC 294 draws closer, fans are excited to see a rematch between Makhachev and Volkanovski. Who do you think wins this one? Comment down below.

Recent Update: Makhachev proved himself to be the better fighter among the two once again, and he did it in just 3 minutes and 6 seconds into the first round. A superb head kick to the temple of Volkanovski and a 13-consecutive win inside the Octagon for the Dagestani. And this time, even Hooker will have to admire the striking prowess of Makhachev.

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