In a thrilling turn of events, UFC 294 is set to feature an explosive co-main events. The bouts take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Short notice showdowns have the fans excited with top level fighters stepping up to major challenges.
MAIN CARD | MAIN EVENT | LIGHTWEIGHT · 155 LBS.
💥 Islam Makhachev (24-1) 🆚 Alexander Volkanovski (26-2)
UFC featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski faces a colossal challenge, stepping up to battle lightweight champ Islam Makhachev on short notice. At 35, he aims to defy age-related odds in lower weight divisions. Volkanovski remains optimistic. Despite a strenuous last-minute weight cut of over 25 pounds, he is ready for redemption. Volkanovski’s courage in stepping up on short notice adds to the fireworks that this rematch is sure to be.
This is must-watch TV for MMA fans. Unfortunately for Volkanovski, the tremendous amount of courage will not be enough to dethrone the champion. Look for Makhachev to find a submission in the later rounds of the fight, securing yet another successful title defense.
ABU DHABI |MAIN CARD | CO-MAIN EVENT | MIDDLEWEIGHT · 185 LBS.
Kamaru Usman (20-3) 🆚 Khamzat Chimaev (12-0)💥
With Chimaev’s perfect 12-0 MMA record and Usman’s seasoned 15-2 UFC record, it’s a true clash of titans. For Usman, it’s a chance to rebound after welterweight losses, while Chimaev returns to middleweight. Dana White confirms the winner vies for the 185-pound championship, adding excitement to the division.
Kamaru Usman has the best takedown defense in UFC history at over 97%. Khamzat Chimaev averages around four takedowns per 15 minutes. Chimaev also has a near perfect takedown defense. This fight may come down to whether Usman can stop the takedowns of Chimaev. If Chimaev cannot find success on the ground, he will have to stand and bang with Usman. Either way, the advantage will be on Chimaev’s side. Look for a second round submission for Khamzat after a very one sided first round.
MAIN CARD | MIDDLEWEIGHT · 185 LBS
💥 Ikram Aliskerov (14-1) 🆚 Warlley Alves (15-6)
Ikram Aliskerov comes into the match as a heavy favorite. The line may be too lopsided as Warlley Alves is not going to be so easy. Alves returned to the Octagon after an 18 month layoff following his knockout loss to Jeremiah Wells. A tough split decision loss in his hometown this past January will only fuel him. He is no stanger to Abu Dhabi, winning his match against Mounir Lazzez back in 2021.
The move up to 185 may be tough for him. Aliskerov has shown he can beat you on the feat or on the ground. Ikram’s only loss was against Khamzat four years ago. Yet, the line is very pricey. Aliskerov may struggle early, but will eventually win late or grab the UD.
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UFC 294 – ABU DHABI UAE #UFC294 💥 Ikram Aliskerov (14-1) 🆚 Warlley Alves (15-6) -💥Islam Makhachev (24-1) 🆚Alexander Volkanovski (26-2) –
— hoosierpete (@peter_maiorano) October 21, 2023
Kamaru Usman (20-3) 🆚 Khamzat Chimaev (12-0)💥#UFC https://t.co/kVrcSgIT5p
