The UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, has unexpectedly announced that he would not be competing at UFC 308 in October. The Dagestani star and Arman Tsarukyan were expected to engage in an intriguing rematch. Regretfully, fans who were expecting to see the champion return to action were disappointed as Makhachev had sustained a serious hand injury that had forced him out of commission, disturbing the UFC schedule.
Makhachev’s Injury: UFC 308 Suffered a Serious Blow
The match between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan was one of the fights of the year that most people were anticipating. There will also be an intriguing sequel to their 2019 match if Makhachev wins with relative ease. Still, because of a recent injury to his arm, Makhachev was forced to miss the October program. The story was confirmed by celebrity instructor Javier Mendez in a recent interview.
The severity of the matter was revealed by Mendez when she remarked, “Yes, he has a nerve injury and… different doctors see him, and they’ll see what they’ll tell him to do.” It is accurate to say that he won’t have enough time to get ready for the fight in October. Consequently, it may be the end of December or possibly January, depending on the UFC and what they can provide. But in October, he won’t be as ready for combat as many believe.
Makhachev and UFC 308, which was anticipated to be a huge event, were both quite concerned about this injury. The UFC now faces the challenging challenge of rescheduling the October program, and Makhachev’s followers will have to wait a long time to watch him defend his title.
UFC’s New Strategy: Temporary Lightweight Title in Game
With Makhachev out of the UFC 308 lineup, the UFC is reportedly considering a short-term lightweight title fight as a replacement. Now Arman Tsarukyan, who is set to fight Makhachev, can compete with another top lightweight for the provisional belt. This will activate the lighter division and ensure that the topic remains up for debate.
In the division, Arman Tsarukyan rose to prominence. He established himself as a strong contender at UFC 300 in April with his victory over former champion Charles Oliveira. Tsarukyan’s brilliance and perseverance were evident in his split decision triumph. It will be a vital chance for Tsarukyan to further establish himself if the fight for the temporary title happens.
Alternatively, should Tsarukyan lose, this might complicate his route to a title opportunity. Charles Oliveira now has a second opportunity to defend his championship. Due to injury, Oliveira withdrew from UFC 294 vs Makhachev, as initially planned. Rematching with Tsarukyan would be a huge chance for Oliveira to prove once more that he is a world-class fighter.
Makhachev’s Route to Recuperation and Chances for the Future
It’s unknown when Islam Makhachev will be ready to return; he is currently healing from a hand injury. Mendez said that depending on Makhachev’s recovery and the UFC’s event schedule, he might be able to return in December or January. The world eagerly awaits news of Makhachev’s predicament and the date on which he might claim his title.
The news of Makhachev’s withdrawal from UFC 308 takes a serious toll on the lightweight division. There is much anticipation among us for the champion to return. Meanwhile, the UFC’s top priority will be to reorganize its schedule while maintaining the thrill and competitiveness of the lightweight division for fans.
The unpredictability of mixed martial arts is shown by the UFC 308 lineup change. The lightweight class needs excitement and tension, and the UFC needs to provide it in light of Makhachev’s withdrawal. Because of the increased stakes, MMA fans around the world will be interested in this possible interim title fight.
