So, here’s the scoop. Islam Makhachev? Yeah, he’s throwing his weight behind Charles Oliveira if a showdown with Colby Covington ever comes to pass. Interesting, right?
Now, let’s rewind a bit. Makhachev snatched the crown from Oliveira with a slick Round 2 submission. That was back at UFC 280 in October 2022. But Oliveira, he’s not one to sulk. He roared back with a knockout victory against Beneil Dariush at UFC 289. That win was his ticket to a rematch with Makhachev, set for UFC 294 in October 2023. But, fate had other plans. Oliveira got a nasty cut while sparring, just 11 days out from the fight. Talk about bad luck, huh?
So, who steps in? Alexander Volkanovski, that’s who. But, it wasn’t his night. Makhachev delivered a head-kick knockout. Now, Makhachev is gearing up to defend his title against Dustin Poirier. That’s going down at UFC 302, main event, June 1. Mark your calendars!
Oh, and there’s this – you can catch the action live. UFC 302, “Makhachev vs. Poirier,” is happening Saturday at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN+. Don’t miss it.
Meanwhile, Oliveira’s been busy too. He faced Arman Tsarukyan in a nail-biter at UFC 300 last month. Despite giving it his all, he didn’t get the nod. Now, he’s at a crossroads, eyeing a move up to welterweight to take on Covington.
Makhachev’s got nothing but love for Oliveira, even inviting him to train in Dagestan. At UFC 302 media day, he was all praises. “Charles is a good guy,” he said, suggesting Oliveira’s striking and grappling are top-notch. And Makhachev believes Oliveira can take Covington down.
Why? Because Oliveira is a finisher, always on the hunt for that knockout or submission. According to Makhachev, Oliveira’s skill level is through the roof. And that’s saying something, coming from a champ.