Let us recall that initially Makhachev’s opponent was supposed to be Charles Oliveira, but the Brazilian withdrew from the fight due to a cut. Volkanovski, whom the Dagestani had already defeated in February of this year, agreed to come on as a substitute 10 days before the tournament.
“I look at their first fight and think, what will Makhachev do to win the rematch? What will he do to beat Volkanovski confidently? Alex realized that he could drop Islam, and he would certainly be looking for an opportunity to score a knockout.
I admit that Volkanovski will be able to control the fight and beat Makhachev. Let's be clear, Islam did not plunge the Wolf into deep waters. This did not happen. I really think Alex will finish him,” Whittaker said on his podcast.