Islam Makhachev will look to make his second successive title defence this coming Saturday, as he takes on Alexander Volkanovski in the UFC 294 main event.
Originally, Makhachev was preparing for a different rematch, a rematch with the man whom he beat to win the vacant lightweight title, Charles Oliveira. Just 12 days out though, he received the news of Oliveira’s injury.
Despite Volkanovski claiming he has a lot to lose taking this short notice fight, Makhachev disagreed at the UFC 294 media day whilst also stating he believes Volkanovski stepped in for the money and not the legacy.
“This guy doesn’t have any pressure he’s coming in on 11 days (notice) and I’ve already beat him. If I beat him again, people will just say he came in on short notice and isn’t in good shape.
“My opinion is he took this fight because of money. What does he lose if I beat him again? He has his belt, he will defend his belt at the beginning of next year.”
Although it is Volkanovski chasing a second belt this weekend, that is something that Islam Makhachev has stated is his ‘dream’, and he admitted he will be keeping a close eye on the UFC 296 main event between welterweights, Leon Edwards and Colby Covington.
“If they call me, I will be ready for either Colby or Leon any fights. But my dream, my goal, I want a second belt.
“We have many UFC champions but not many double champions, I want to be double champion.”
Watch the full UFC 294 media day appearance from Islam Makhachev above.
