SYDNEY – Alexander Volkanovski believes Islam Makhachev’s rematch would be perfect for UFC 300.
Featherweight champion Volkanovski (26-2 MMA, 13-1 UFC) has drawn up a two-fight plan, which will begin with a title defense against undefeated contender Ilia Topuria, followed by a rematch with the lightweight champion Makhachev.
Makhachev (24-1 MMA, 13-1 UFC) will defend his belt when he fights back with Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC 294 on October 21 in Abu Dhabi.
“You got the Ilia fight that will always be there,” Volkanovski said backstage at UFC 293. “You got that rematch that I want (vs. Makhachev). I want to be active. Of course, Islam and Charlie (Oliveira) are going on soon, so I don’t want to wait around.
“So, I’ll do it early next year, I think. I wanted this year, but I think the schedule is just not going to get in for me. year.”
Volkanovski pushed Makhachev to the ring in their title fight at UFC 284 in February but ultimately lost by decision. If both Volkanovski and Makhachev can successfully defend their titles, “The Great” believes it will set them up perfectly for a rematch on the biggest stage at UFC 300.
“I think that makes a lot of sense,” Volkanovski said. “Yes, definitely. I think that would be great, especially since having my hand raised on that one for UFC 300 would be perfect, but again, we’ll see what we can do. But I think that’s one of the biggest fights you can do. I really believe that. A lot of people want to see that again. It was very competitive, and I promise you I’ll do it next time.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 300.
Story first appeared on MMA Junkie
