Get to know the latest updates on Islam Makhachev VS Charles Oliveira2 in this article below:
Charles Oliveira vs. Islam Makhachev 2? Dana White is interested in seeing it.
Oliveira dominated Beneil Daruish in the co-main event of UFC 289 on Saturday (June 10, 2023), finishing the No. 4-ranked Lightweight in the first round via technical knockout from inside Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (see highlights). Oliveira’s 20th finish inside the Octagon came against Dariush, a historic feat that he holds solely.
Oliveira’s spectacular UFC 289 victory also left him in an interesting position because he just beat the guy who was “guaranteed” a Lightweight title opportunity if he won, but he also just lost to the current champion at UFC 280 months ago.
The UFC president did not guarantee Oliveira a rematch against Makhachev, but he did say it made sense.
“He looked like a world-beater tonight, and I’m excited for him and Islam to fight again,” White said during the press conference for UFC 289. “It’s the logical thing to do.” I’ll let you know on Tuesday. But, let’s not kid ourselves; that fight makes sense. That is the fight that should take place. And I’m looking forward to seeing it again.”
Dana White says he's "excited" for Charles Oliveira to rematch Islam Makhachev 👀 #UFC289
"Let’s not play games, that fight makes sense, that’s the fight that should happen, and I’m excited to see it again.” pic.twitter.com/7sxTBAPjIn
— MMAFighting.com (@MMAFighting) June 11, 2023
Another looming clash over “Do Bronx” and the 155-pound title picture is the forthcoming “BMF” title fight at UFC 291 between No. 2- and No. 3-ranked fighters Dustin Poirier vs. Justin Gaethje. The winner of that battle would earn Makhachev a new opponent.
White was questioned about Makhachev’s desire to face a new opponent.
“There are a lot of factors that go into the next [title] fight,” White explained. “I mean, I’m sitting here right now talking to you about him, and I have no idea what’s wrong with him.” He’s in medical school. I’m not sure where he is or what he has planned for the summer. The list of factors that influence how battles are fought goes on and on. But I’ll just say right now that [Makhachev vs. Oliveira] is a fight I’d like to watch again.”
Makhachev isn’t scheduled to fight again until the promotion returns to Abu Dhabi in October, so there’s still time to select who comes next.
