Being more appreciated than Alexander Volkanovski before UFC 284, but Islam Makhachev also faced many difficulties in the preparation process. According to the share of Russian boxers, he is still weighing than the standard up to 5.5kg just 2 days before the weight test. If it is impossible to squeeze the weight, Makhachev will be deprived of the championship belt, even losing the right to play.
“I am heavier than the prescribed weight, but that does not bother me too much,” Makhachev said. “In the immediate future, I will continue to cut the weight to prepare for the belt protection. Nothing is unusual happening at the present time. Everything is still in the plan.”
Unlike Makhachev, the weight pressure does not put too much on the shoulders of Alexander Volkanovski. The Australian boxer was used to pressing down to compete in weight featherweight. Therefore, he will not have to squeeze as much as before, when Don weighs the Lightweight to play with the reigning champion Makhachev.
Besides not having to overweight, Alexander Volkanovski also has the advantage of playing at home. Thousands of viewers have come to sit over the auditorium, watching each action of Alexander Volkanovski for the confrontation that takes 2 days. He was expected to defeat Makhachev to win 2 championships at the same time.
On Makhachev's side, his trip to Australia has no Khabib coach this time. Earlier, “Russian Eagle” once said he would completely withdraw from the professional MMA world to spend more time with his family. Makhachev said he was completely sympathetic to his friend's decision.