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After weeks of speculation, the UFC has finally announced that Alexander Volkanovski will get a shot at the lightweight title and serve as Islam Makhachev's first defense since capturing gold. However, Renato Moicano isn't a fan of the matchup.
The Russian received criticism all the way up to his title clash against Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 for not earning his shot and facing lower-ranked opponents. Despite his dominance over 'do Bronx', fans are back on the sambo specialist's case due to him once again 'avoiding' the elite fighters in his own division.
On James Lynch's MMA Pros Pick, Renato Moicano insisted that the size is going to matter a great deal when Islam Makhachev steps into the octagon to face Alexander Volkanovski in February next year:
"I think that fight doesn't make any sense, man. I don't see how Volkanovski can beat Makhachev. Of course, Volkanovski's a really good fighter, he's dominated his division, but I feel the difference in size is crazy. I think Makhachev can dominate on the ground. This is not a good fight for Volkanovski and I don't know why they are pushing the fight... For me, I don't see any sense to this matchup."
Moicano has been a sensation inside the octagon and has seen a massive increase in his stock over the past year. His display of heart in his short-notice brawl against Rafael dos Anjos and his post-fight speech following a one-sided win over Brad Riddell at UFC 281 has elevated him to new heights in the sport.
Check out what Moicano had to say about the upcoming lightweight fight in the video below:
When will Islam Makhachev defend his title against Alexander Volkanovski?
Islam Makhachev has the chance to add another huge name to his record and be recognized as the No.1 pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC with a win over Alexander Volkanovski when the two collide on February 12 next year in Perth, Australia.
The newly crowned lightweight champion will enter enemy soil and put his belt on the line when the UFC makes its long-awaited return to Australia next year.
Alongside the 155lbs title fight at UFC 284, Josh Emmett and Yair Rodriguez will lock horns in the co-main event as they prepare to battle for the interim featherweight title in Volkanovski's absence from the division. Robert Whittaker, Jimmy Crute, Tyson Pedro, and Justin Tafa are all scheduled to fight at the event.
