UFC CEO Dana White said he was impressed with Islam Makhachev's answer about the unexpected replacement of his opponent in the main event of UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi.
Makhachev's opponent was initially scheduled to be Brazilian Charles Oliveira, but shortly before the event he suffered a deep cut above his eye and withdrew from the fight. Alexander Volkanovski agreed to replace him.
I'm going to read you a quote from Islam to give you an idea of what it's all about. He is offered a fight with Volk on short notice and he says, What does this title represent? It means you’re the best in the world and if you’re the best in the world it doesn’t matter who is standing across from you. What do I say? No? Never. Let’s do this.
Makhachev and Volkanovski first met in February 2023 at UFC 284. Makhachev won by unanimous decision in five rounds.
Makhachev has 24 wins and one loss. Volkanovski has 26 wins and two losses.