“UFC Controls Everything” – Hinting Another Champ Champ Fight, Islam Makhachev’s Coach Unsure of Charles Oliveira & Justin Gaethe as Next Opponents

Islam Makhachev achieved a stellar and decisive victory at UFC 294. The audience was very hyped for a match that wouldn’t go much farther past a few minutes of the very first round. Alexander Volkanovski was a fearsome opponent, but one that was perhaps ill-prepared.

Now, Makhachev must look forward. He has proved once and for all that he’s the better one of the two fighters. In a recent conversation, his coach, Javier Mendez, talked about the fighter’s future. The Dagestani could be up to face anyone next, but who are the top contenders for him?

Coach Javier Mendez talks next fight options

Makhachev fought Volkanovski and tore him down with a brilliant kick in the first round. A kick to his face and a barrage of fists later, Volkanovski was just about out cold. The winner had been declared, and the debate settled. So the question is, who can beat Makhachev?

Mendez has been a coach for Team Khabib for ages now. He wanted to give Makhachev props for winning the fight and also answer a few questions regarding the fighter’s future. Names like Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, and the welterweight champion came up. Currently, Leon Edwards sits proud with his welterweight title, but after UFC 296, the champ could be someone else.

“We don’t know what Gaethje holds we know what Oliveira holds. Let’s see what the UFC says I don’t know how it’s going to play out,” said Mendez. “The UFC controls everything. All I know is whatever they offer Islam’s going to say yes”

He also mentioned Colby Covington, who could possibly clinch the title out of Edwards’ hands at UFC 296. Makhachev has always wanted to be a multi-divisional champ, and the idea of the welterweight title “excites” him. However, for the time being, no opponents have been finalized.

Who should face Islam Makhachev next?

Charles Oliveira was supposed to be the real opponent for Makhachev at UFC 294. However, the fighter had to pull out because of a brutal head injury. A clear cut right above his eyebrow was visible in the pictures he provided. Once it was clear Oliveira was out, ‘The Great’ was asked to step up.

Also Read: Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Absence From Islam Makhachev’s Corner Explained by Ex-UFC Champ as Team Conor McGregor Downplays Incredible Feat With One Word

So perhaps it’s best for Oliveira to get a second chance. It’s a much more exciting matchup, much like Volkanovski vs. Makhachev. A second meeting of the two fighters in the cage could be quite a stir for the UFC. On the other hand, Makhachev finally aiming for the welterweight title could also be just as exciting. Which fight would you prefer?

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