“…Settle This and Punish Those Who Make Such Unsubstantiated Accusations”- Islam Makhachev Demands Harsh Action From the UFC Against Alexander Volkanovski’s Camp Following IV Accusations

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has been the center of attention for MMA fans of late. Despite having a successful yet close outing against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, it has been the allegations planted against him that have been making the news. Now, this clearly appears to have taken a toll on him, as his recent interview demonstrated his frustration at the Australian’s camp. While speaking to the Russian media, Makhachev answered questions related to the controversy surrounding IV use during his rehydration process. Although he stepped back from taking any names; he demanded that the UFC and the commission take action against individuals who laid those accusations on him.

While continuously denying all allegations, the lightweight champion also talked about how his intentions to serve as a positive role model would never allow him to do anything out of the rule books.

Islam Makhachev claims all allegations against him are unsubstantiated

The entire fiasco around his alleged IV usage started when UFC lightweight Dan Hooker, in a series of tweets, called the lightweight champ a cheat. Hooker‘s call-out eventually led multiple personalities from the champ’s team to refute the claim; while simultaneously slamming Hooker as a ‘salty’ loser. Although the New Zealander did not offer any proof to back his claim, Makhachev has had to tirelessly answer multiple questions on the topic. Now the 31-year-old appears to have had enough of these speculations. As he answered the Russian media; he demanded that the UFC take action against those accusing him baselessly.

On being asked about the controversy, he responded: “No official institution has accused me of anything. Neither the UFC nor USADA. It’s just a few salty guys from Volk’s team accusing with no proof. The UFC and the athletic commission should settle this and punish those who make such unsubstantiated accusations.”

For Makhachev to come out victorious from unarguably the toughest win of his career; it would have been clearly frustrating to see fans question his integrity.

Makhachev on playing a positive role for young athletes in Dagestan

On being asked if he did use an IV to rehydrate, Makhachev denied doing so. He pointed out the responsibility that he carries as a champion for the young kids in Dagestan as the primary reason for that.

He said: “I can’t put an IV because that’s forbidden. I don’t do that stuff. I want to lead by example for our guys.” The Lightweight champion then went on to express how people could look at him and realize that anyone from a humble family could achieve whatever they set out to.

 “The gyms in Dagestan are packed. I want to be a positive influence. I want to show that any guy from a simple family can train every day, set a goal, and work towards it. Someone who works towards their goal will eventually achieve something.” Stated Makhachev. 

Ultimately for the Russian, it does look like that a hard camp leading up to the fight, followed by a tough five rounds has left him needing a break. He pointed that out as well during his interaction with the media.

“Right now, I need to give my body time to recover. In the last year, I’ve constantly been in the process. I had hard training camps. I need to let my body recover.” explained Makhachev.

Read More: “Put Up or Shut Up” – UFC World Reacts to Australian Sports Commission’s Major Statement on Islam Makhachev IV Controversy

MMA fans might end up wondering what eventually will play out from the entire drama. Although Dan Hooker seemed adamant in his allegations, there cannot be any action without backing them up with proof. In that case, Makhachev‘s frustration is completely warranted. And the same thing also goes for his demand that the accusers be trounced by the UFC.

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