Islam Makhachev prefers Charles Oliveira over ‘short guy’ Alexander Volkanovski for UFC 280 title fighting

Islam Makhachev plans to combat for the UFC light-weight identify on Saturday. It doesnt be counted if his opponent is Charles Oliveira or Alexander Volkanovski, hes making plans to combat for gold. However, given the option, there`s absolute confidence that Makhachev might choose to face Oliveira, if simplest to keep away from the chatter of combat fans.

The UFC light-weight belt presently sits vacant following the UFCs decision (now no longer the Arizona State Athletic Commission) to strip Oliveira of that identify, after the Brazilian did not make championship weight beforehand of UFC 274. A titleless Oliveira submitted Justin Gaethje on that May card. Speaking to the media (thru MMA Fighting) beforehand of UFC 280, Makhachev stated that weight pass over didnt harm Oliveira`s standing.

“Hes a champion however he have to expose all warring parties a great example,” Makhachev stated. “He must be professional. I desire hes going to make weight [this] time.”

If Oliveira misses weight at UFC 280, the UFC has featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski accessible to function an emergency backup.

Makhachev sounds completely inclined to stand Volkanovski for the identify, however might opt for the UFC didn`t workout that option.

“Honestly, I met Volkanovski downstairs, he`s a brief guy,” Makhachev stated. “I ask him why you want to reduce weight proper now? But if I beat Volkanovski human beings are going to say [I beat a smaller opponent] however human beings are usually going to talk.

“[Right now] I need to combat with Charles, and I desire hes going to make weight. But it doesnt be counted. This camp, I skilled so hard, it doesn`t be counted who’s going to be there. Saturday night, I want someone.”

Makhachev enters UFC 280 because the No. four ranked fighter withinside the reputable UFC light-weight rankings, 3 spots in the back of Oliveira. The 31-year-antique is on a 10-combat prevailing streak, that is one much less consecutive victory than Oliveira presently has to his name.

UFC 280 takes region at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The principal card streams on ESPN+ following prelims on ESPNEWS.