“Had nothing to lose,” UFC Legend claims Alexander Volkanovski’s fight against Islam Makhachev mimes Nate Diaz’s epic showdown with Conor McGregor
Michael Bisping discusses Alexander Volkanovski's big stakes for his next bout against Islam Makhachev at UFC 294.
Islam Makhachev blames Alexander Volkanovski's team for his title loss (Image via Imago)
In the upcoming UFC 294 bout between Alexander Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev, there’s more on the line than it may seem at first glance. UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping has voiced his opinion on this highly-anticipated rematch, shedding light on the stakes involved.
Their initial encounter was a tightly contested match, and after a recent reevaluation, Michael Bisping expressed his belief that Volkanovski narrowly clinched victory. While some may argue that Volkanovski enters this rematch as the underdog, Bisping argued otherwise. He highlighted, “A lot of people may say that Volkanovski has nothing to lose…but the bigger thing in play is the pride of the fighter,” Bisping continued.
He drew the comparison to Nate Diaz fighting Conor McGregor on short notice and how he shocked the world because he had no pressure. However, Michael Bisping also argued that the UFC 294 fight goes beyond the featherweight title for Volkanovski. He pointed out that even if Alexander Volkanovski is taking the fight at short notice, if he loses the fight the records will show two wins for Islam Makhachev. And Volkanovski might not get a third chance after this.
Their previous encounter earlier this year ended in Makhachev’s favor through a unanimous decision. This left a score to settle between the two fighters. Volkanovski is now a late replacement for Charles Oliveira, who withdrew due to injury. He is determined and mentally prepared for the showdown scheduled in Abu Dhabi this October. It is an opportunity for him to rewrite the narrative and carve his name in UFC history.
Alexander Volkanovski shares his insight on Kamaru Usman vs. Khamzat Chimaev
Alexander Volkanovski has shared his perspective on the Khamzat Chimaev vs. Kamaru Usman bout. The fight is slated for UFC 294’s co-main event at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena in October.
Usman has stepped into this match on short notice and in a higher-weight class. This has presented a unique challenge for the former champion. Volkanovski gave credit to Chimaev because he pointed out that Usman would present a stern test for the undefeated Chimaev. He argued that despite Chimaev’s prowess, Usman has incredible takedown defense. Thus Volkanovski found it reasonable to expect a stand-up battle.
He went on to highlight that Chimaev is known for maintaining an incredibly high pace. He pondered on whether Usman could weather the storm and endure Chimaev’s relentless pace. Volkanovski’s insights suggest that the Chimaev vs. Usman showdown promises to be an intriguing battle of skill, stamina, and adaptability.
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Neial Nishant Bhuyan
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