UFC: Dana White Explains The Reason Why Islam Makhachev Is Out Until Summer
UFC CEO Dana White has shared why Islam Makhachev won't be seeing any action inside the Octagon this spring.
It was clear that the UFC had plans on booking a lightweight title rematch between current titleholder Makhachev and Charles Oliveira. Makhachev submitted "do Bronx" back in 2022 to capture the 155-pound gold. A rematch had been scheduled for UFC 294 back in October 2023, but Oliveira suffered a cut during sparring and had to pull out of the fight.
While the UFC was looking to rebook the rematch, it simply wasn't meant to be for now. Dana ended up announcing Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan for UFC 300. White claimed this will be a number one contender fight for a shot at the 155-pound gold.
During his fight announcement video, Dana White explained why Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira 2 couldn't be booked for the UFC's biggest show of 2024.
"Oliveira was supposed to fight the champ, Islam Makhachev but Islam is still recovering from an injury," White said. "Tsarukyan is coming off a vicious knockout of Beneil Dariush. The winner will face Islam when he returns this summer."
Makhachev ended up facing reigning UFC featherweight champion Alex Volkanovski once Oliveira wasn't cleared to compete at UFC 294. Makhachev scored a first-round head kick KO to maintain his hold on the UFC lightweight gold. Volkanovski's 145-pound title was not at stake.
It'll be interesting to see who emerges victorious in the April 13 battle between Oliveira and Tsarukyan, and if the UFC goes through with initial number one contender plans.
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