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Islam Makhachev opened up about what he believes could be next for him following his first successful lightweight title defense against Alexander Volkanovski this past Saturday at UFC 284.
Upon arriving in Dagestan, Makhachev spoke with media members and answered questions. In a video uploaded and translated to Red Corner MMA's YouTube channel, the lightweight champion mentioned that he is staying ready for his next challenge.
He said:
"I'm not going to wait for anybody or call anybody out. I'll be ready as soon as the UFC gives me an opponent. No matter if it's the rematch or another lightweight contender." [2:32 - 2:41]
The reigning lightweight champion updated the media on his future plans and how soon he'd like to return to the octagon and defend his title. He mentioned that Ramadan will factor in his decision, saying:
"Now I definitely need a little rest. Ramadan is coming up and there's no time to fight before that. I'll have plenty of time to recover. I was preparing for the Charles Oliveira fight for 4 months. After that fight, I continued to train and had no time to relax...Now I'll take a pause leading up to Ramadan." [8:26]
Check out the full video:
Islam Makhachev shares his thoughts on the judges' scorecards at UFC 284
There was plenty of debate amongst fans and media members regarding how judges scored in the UFC 284 main event between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski. Some felt that 'Volk' should have been awarded with the decision based on how active he was.
Despite his win, the Dagestani was unable to take Volkanovski No.1 pound-for-pound ranking, which could make a rematch something to consider. He joked about the fight not being closely contested by tweeting a jibe directed at 'Volk', writing:
"Just watched the tape, and have to be fair, out of 25 minutes Volk got last 1 minute!"
It will be interesting to see what the UFC decides to do with regards to the lightweight championship. Dustin Poirier and the winner of the upcoming Rafael Fiziev vs. Justin Gaethje bout could be realistic should they decide not to book Makhachev vs. Volkanovski 2.
