While the hotly anticipated rematch for the lightweight crown between jiu-jitsu king Charles Oliveira and Dagestani wrestling terror Islam Makhachev has been canceled for this month, fans will be granted another much sought-after rematch for Islam — against featherweight phenom Alex “The Great” Volkanovski.
Oliveira reportedly pulled out due to a large gash above the eyebrow sustained during training, which gave Volk to opportunity to step up on short notice. The last time he faced Makhachev, Volkanovski successfully survived five rounds in the cage and multiple takedowns from the Dagestani, forcing the fight to a referee’s decision. Though Islam was declared the victor that day, many fans were impressed by the smaller man’s tenacity, and speculated on what might happen in a rematch.
Their wish will be granted on Saturday, October 21, at UFC 294.
