Dana White not in mood to ‘play games’ regarding much-anticipated Islam Makhachev vs Charles Oliveira rematch

Will Dana White set up a Oliveira vs Makhachev rematch for UFC lightweight title fight. The UFC President makes his comments at the UFC 289 press conference after Charles Oliveira defeats Beneil Dariush

Dana White not in mood to ‘play games’ regarding much-anticipated Islam Makhachev vs Charles Oliveira rematch

Will Dana White set up a Oliveira vs Makhachev rematch for UFC lightweight title fight (Image source: L/R- Getty Images )

Now that Charles Oliveira defeated Beneil Dariush at UFC 289, MMA fans are at a fix. Dana White is considering the possibility of a highly anticipated rematch between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev for the UFC Lightweight Championship. While Dana has not yet confirmed anything, his words at the post-fight press conference show hope for a potential rematch.

Each fighter on the UFC 289 fight card put up an extraordinary performance. Charles Oliveira secured a stoppage win over Beneil Dariush. Immediately the Brazilian former champion called for a title shot against the UFC Lightweight champion. Despite the highly anticipated and obvious matchup, Dana White struggles to declare the rematch between Oliveira and current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

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When asked if the UFC 289 winner would determine the next title contender, White responded with his customary ambiguity. In a subsequent interview, White had mentioned the potential for a rematch between the two UFC stars. He expressed his anticipation for the upcoming discussions with matchmakers to finalize the fight and then come out with a more concrete statement.

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Makhachev, on the other hand, is up for a new challenge. In an interview with Daniel Cormier, Makhachev revealed his hope that Dariush would defeat Oliveira so that he could face Beneil. Since he had already fought Oliveira in the past and wanted a fresh opponent. White acknowledged Makhachev’s desire for a new challenge but emphasized that a rematch with Oliveira made the most sense to him. While taking Makhachev’s situation into consideration, White believed that the rematch between Oliveira and Makhachev would be the ideal matchup for the lightweight title.

Related: “I would be…,” Charles Oliveira leaks strategy ahead of Islam Makhachev rematch after stellar UFC 289 performance

Charles Oliveira defeats Beneil Dariush at UFC 289

Charles Oliveira defeats Beneil Dariush at UFC 289 ( Image source: Getty Images )
Charles Oliveira defeats Beneil Dariush at UFC 289 ( Image source: Getty Images )

Another significant highlight of the night was the overwhelming support Oliveira received from the Vancouver fans. The Brazilian fighter was deeply moved by the standing ovation and the heartfelt cheers he received. The warm welcome made Oliveira feel at home, despite being far away from Brazil.

Dana White understands the reasons behind Oliveira’s popularity. He acknowledged Oliveira’s remarkable career transformation since 2016. Highlighting his skills, finishing ability, and willingness to engage in both striking and ground battles. White appreciated Oliveira’s likable personality and emphasized why fans should root for him.

Oliveira’s victory over Dariush at UFC 289 also marked a new UFC record. With his 20th finish, he established himself as the fighter with the most finishes in the promotion’s history. In addition to the accolades, Oliveira earned a well-deserved ‘Performance of the Night’ bonus of $50,000. While the decision on the next lightweight title fight is still pending, fans eagerly await the announcement from Dana White. The outcome of this highly anticipated showdown will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the UFC Lightweight division.

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