The highly anticipated UFC lightweight title bout between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski in February 2023 delivered an unforgettable display of skill and determination from both fighters. Despite facing obstacles, Volkanovski’s remarkable ability to fend off Makhachev’s takedowns and Makhachev’s impressive striking showcased their individual strengths. The fight was so enthralling that the prospect of a rematch was raised during a touching backstage meeting captured in a recent video. A second bout between these two talented fighters would be a missed opportunity to witness another exciting display of their abilities.
The lightweight champion further cemented his position as one of the best in the game with his victory in Perth. Despite the excitement surrounding the fight, it was not without controversy. Makhachev was accused of cheating by using IV rehydration, something which is illegal. As fans weighed in on the allegations, it remains unclear if a rematch between the two fighters will ever happen. The UFC fandom were delighted to see the two fighters discussing the possibility of a fight.
Fans react to the Volkanovski-Makhachev backstage meeting
Both fighters were in a great mood after a tremendous fight. During their meeting, there was no sign of animosity and they were showing each other the utmost respect. What’s more, no one could have predicted what will transpire afterwards, looking at the meeting. Since the fight, things have been sensitive between Makhachev and Volkanovski due to cheating accusations. Here’s what the fans thought about the backstage meeting:
A fan points out: “Fans got more bad blood with each other than they do”
One fan predicts: “I think islam will fight beneil and volk will foght yair then theyll rematch.”
Another fan said: “That’s so wholesome it makes me sick. /s”
Meanwhile, a fan hilariously said: “Love this. Volk translation: Can we fight again so I can do a few things differently and beat you? Haha”
Whilst one fan said: “Couldve got the rematch if hooker laid off the booze and kept his mouth shut”
Some fan said: “Sucks that it didn’t end on a high note like this. CKB had to ruin it with the baseless accusations.”
A fan doesn’t think that we will see the rematch; “This is prior to the accusations; likely not getting the rematch anylonger..”
One fan points out: “Volk is on his knees for that rematch lol. He asked like 17 times already”
The conversation between the duo provides great insight for what the future holds. Moreover, they even discuss where the rematch might take place.
Alexander Volkanovski is adamant about the rematch
Many fans and experts believed that Alexander Volkanovski was the true winner of the mega-fight. However, he fell short against the UFC lightweight champion. Thus, it was well within his right to demand for a rematch and so he did multiple times during their backroom meeting.
He said, “Should we do it again?” To which Makhachev agreed. Volkanovski further added, “You deserve one in Abu Dabhi. My turn to get booed.”
Fans globally would love the see them go again at each other inside the octagon. Volkanovski came the closest to stop Makhachev’s dominant run. Do you think that there will be a rematch? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
