UFC ‘definitely’ wants Makhachev-Volkanovski rematch after Perth classic — ‘It’s gonna be a different fight’

Islam Makhachev defeated Alexander Volkanovski within the UFC 284 pay-per-view (PPV) primary occasion final weekend in Perth (highlights here), retaining his light-weight title and sending “The Nice” again all the way down to featherweight to unify the belts towards Yair Rodriguez.

“El Pantera” defeated Josh Emmett to win the interim 145-pound strap (video).

The combat between Makhachev and Volkanovski was shut sufficient to go away the door open for a possible rematch. In reality, the Aussie (and several other fighters) believes he did enough to safe the victory regardless of developing quick on the judges’ scorecards.

That’s why coach Javier Mendez expects an eventual rematch.

“I positively assume the UFC is gonna need to see a rematch,” Mendez advised Submission Radio. “So, I don’t see no motive why they wouldn’t do a rematch. I feel it could be nice. I feel the followers would adore it. I feel Islam can be down for it additionally. And clearly Alex is. As a result of, I imply, come on now, he calls himself ‘Alexander the Nice,’ and he lives as much as that identify. So, there’s a motive why he’s such gentleman, he’s a competitor. He feels he received, however that’s the way in which you’re alleged to really feel.”

Simply don’t count on a replay of UFC 284 the second time round.

“I feel in some unspecified time in the future they in all probability will do a rematch,” Mendez continued. “Once they collide once more it’s gonna be a unique combat, totally different adversity for each side. It’s not gonna be straightforward for each side. No approach. However let’s see what occurs. Let’s see what’s within the playing cards. I’m positive Yair has acquired the subsequent calling, and let’s see what occurs from there.”

Volkanovski will first need to settle this unfinished business.

As well as, Makhachev is more likely to defend his light-weight title against the winner of Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler, who’re anticipated to throw down after their upcoming dedication to The Final Fighter (TUF) 31, which is about to debut this Could on ESPN+.

For extra UFC 284 outcomes and fallout click on here.