A month ago, Islam Makhachev won against Alexander Volkanovski at the UFC 284 event. The defending champion of the Lightweight Championship wanted to return to the octagonal cage soon, but UFC did not think so. There is information showing that they want to keep Makhachev until the end of the new year so that he can continue playing.
“I told the UFC about the early protection of the belt, but they didn't think so. Dana White and UFC managers said they wanted me to rest, and continue playing at Abu Dhabi this year,” Makhachev said. He hopes he can play soon in June, but most likely have to wait longer.
Every year, UFC organizes a major event at Abu Dhabi. This event usually takes place in September or October, and this may be the time when Makhachev returned to play. Abu Dhabi was also the place to witness Makhachev officially holding the championship, when he defeated Charles Oliveira last October.
The UFC wants Makhachev to rest is completely grounded. He played 3 matches in the last 12 months, beating hard opponents like Bobby Green, Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski. There is information showing that Makhachev has accepted the rematch of Volkanovski, although the time has not been confirmed.
On the side of Volkanovski, the defending champion of the weight class featherweight will have to protect the belt before confronting Makhachev. He will play with Yair Rodriguez, who holds the temporary championship, in July this year. Volkanovski may have to wait a little longer to fight Makhachev, because it is likely that he will protect the belt in front of the winner in the match between Oliveira and Dariush.