Published 02/19/2023, 11:45 AM EST
Life has been a roller coaster ride for Islam Makhachev for the last couple of months. In Oct 2022, the Russian fighter defeated Charles Oliveira to win the UFC lightweight title. He then defended his title in a champ vs champ fight against the featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski.
The entire MMA world watched as Islam Makhachev defeated the Australian native via a unanimous decision. However, many fans and MMA critics felt that ‘The Great’ had won that fight. Just after the fight, the IV accusations against the lightweight champ kicked in. Following all this, the Russian has finally hinted in an Instagram post about what his next move is going to be.
Islam Makhachev hints at taking a break
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Recently, Islam Makhachev posted a picture of himself sitting on a chair in a frozen lake. The first line of the caption was in Russian, and translated to – “I worked, I’m resting”. After that, the champ also wrote “Time to rest” on his Instagram post. Islam Makhachev does not look in a rush to defend his lightweight title.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Islam_Makhachev (@islam_makhachev)
Although Islam Makhachev defeated the pound-for-pound #1, he still can be seen at the #2 spot, behind ‘The Great’. Many fans are speculating Volkanovski’s superior striking abilities are the reason behind this. The Lightweight champ was not very happy because of this and has openly expressed his dissatisfaction.
Makhachev has also not clearly responded to his IV controversy. Amidst all the controversy, the Russian’s recent post has added fuel to fans’ speculations.
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Makhachev vs Volkanovski rematch?
Fans have termed Makhachev vs Volkanovski one of the best UFC fights of all time. Such impressive performances from both fighters have left fans demanding a rematch. Not so long after the fight, Volkanovski tweeted that he thought he had won the fight. He also mentioned that he wants a rematch. The lightweight champ has not talked about the rematch so far. Also, Makhachev does not have a clear opponent for his lightweight title in his weight class.
February 12, 2023, Perth, Perth, Australia, Australia: PERTH, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 12: R-L Islam Makhachev battles Alex Volkanovski in their Lightweight title fight during the UFC 284 event at Rac Arena on February 12, 2023 in Perth, Australia. Perth Australia – ZUMAp175 20230212_zsa_p175_146 Copyright: xMattxDaviesx
Has Makhachev chosen to rest because of his IV accusations? Has he made the decision because he was dissatisfied with the P4P rankings? Or is it just because the champ needs some time off? Only Islam Makhachev has the answer to these questions, and fans are waiting to find it out.
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