SUMMARY
- The all-important UFC 300 is set to take place on April 13, 2024, and Dana White shared the latest addition to the auspicious event.
- For the most part, this statement led to an instant head turn from many, as there was no news of Islam ever getting injured.
As expected, fans were once again treated to some more fight announcements. UFC President Dana White, returning from his vacation, promised something to keep the fans excited. Notably, whilst making his announcements, he shed light on the current situation of Islam Makhachev.
As fans may be aware, the all-important UFC 300 is set to take place on April 13, 2024. Naturally, the third centennial of the UFC’s PPV events is considered to be a big deal by many. Thus, Dana White shared with fans the latest addition to the auspicious event. As many had hoped, the rumored Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsrukyan matchup was finally announced for UFC 300.
TWO HUGE LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHTS JUST ANNOUNCED BY DANA WHITE#UFC299 : Dustin Poirier vs Benoit Saint Denis #UFC300 : Charles Oliveira vs Arman Tsarukyan
THIS IS MASSIVE pic.twitter.com/phr77OIn9F
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) January 8, 2024
Taking to social media, Dana White said, “For UFC 300, #1 ranked lightweight Charles Oliveira is taking on #4 ranked Arman Tsarukyan in a number one contender fight.” Further, White went on to add, “Oliveira was supposed to fight the champ, Islam Makhachev, but Islam is still recovering from an injury. The winner will face Islam when he returns this summer”. This statement led to an instant head turn from many, as there was no news of Islam ever getting injured.
Following his dominant win over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294, Islam had often reiterated his wish to fight in March. Revealing his intentions to fight a new contender instead of having rematches, many were anxiously awaiting fight news from Islam Makhachev. However, White revealing that Islam is injured, throws a new twist in the tale, considering what Ali Abdelaziz had to say.
Ali Abdelaziz reveals the real reason behind Islam Makhachev not fighting
For those unaware, Ali Abdelaziz is one of the most renowned agents in the game. Having worked with the likes of Khabib Nurmgomedov, Kamaru Usman, Islam, and others, he has created a name for himself. Notably, shortly after White’s announcement, Ali was interviewed by Brett Okamoto from ESPN. Although the main discussion was regarding Belal Muhammad, the manager also had things to say about Islam.
Speaking during the interview, Ali Abdelaziz first spoke about how Justin Gaethje is deserving of the next title shot. With two back-to-back wins against tough opponents, Justin has earned the right to face Islam. Moreover, he also revealed when this potential fight could take place. “June, end of May or June, Islam will be ready. But in the holy months of Ramadan as a Muslim, you’re not supposed to fight or you try to avoid fighting, ” said Abdelaziz.
Previously, Islam Makhachev also echoed something similar by revealing his intentions to fight in March. However, with Sean O’Malley headlining UFC 299, it was assumed that Makhachev would be saved for later. Similarly, Oliveira fighting Tsarukyan seemingly confirms that Gaethje will get the title shot against Islam. Thus, White declaring Islam to be injured whilst Ali is talking about his next fight is not sitting well with fans.
For the most part, fans have theorized that Islam is being saved for the Saudi card later this year. With the UFC having signed a lucrative deal with the nation, Makhachev and Chimaev are expected to headline the events held there. Similarly, one can expect the lightweight champ’s second fight this year to take place in Abu Dhabi, where he has headlined two out of his last three fights.