Introduction
Islam Makhachev has established himself as the dominant force in the UFC lightweight division. With an ironclad wrestling game and an evolving striking arsenal, he looks unstoppable. However, one man still wants revenge: Charles Oliveira.
Their first fight at UFC 280 ended with Makhachev submitting Oliveira in the second round, crowning him the lightweight king. But the former champion believes he wasn’t at his best that night and is now demanding a rematch.
Will Oliveira reclaim his title, or will Makhachev prove that he’s levels above the competition? Let’s break it down.
Islam Makhachev’s Dominance: Why He’s the Favorite
Makhachev’s reign as the UFC lightweight champion has been nothing short of spectacular. His dominant victories over Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski, and Dustin Poirier have solidified his place as one of the best fighters in the world.
Key Strengths:
✅ Elite Wrestling & Grappling – A protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev is nearly impossible to take down.
✅ Improved Striking – His head-kick KO against Volkanovski proved he’s evolving as a striker.
✅ Fight IQ & Cardio – He paces himself perfectly and never gases out.
Potential Weaknesses:
❌ Striking Defense – Fighters like Volkanovski have landed clean shots on him.
❌ Danger of Oliveira’s Submissions – Charles holds the most submission wins in UFC history.
Makhachev’s wrestling-heavy approach makes him a nightmare matchup for any opponent. But Oliveira is far from an easy challenge.
Can Charles Oliveira Shock the World?
Charles Oliveira has been one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history. With a record-breaking 19 finishes in the UFC, he’s a submission and knockout machine.
But in his first fight against Makhachev, he struggled to impose his game plan. This time, he’s confident things will be different.
How Oliveira Can Win the Rematch:
✔️ Start Fast: Oliveira fights aggressively, often rushing his opponents. If he can land a big shot early, he could hurt Makhachev.
✔️ Improve Takedown Defense: If Oliveira can keep the fight standing, he has a chance to overwhelm Makhachev with strikes.
✔️ Capitalize on Submissions: Makhachev will look for takedowns, and Oliveira’s guillotine and triangle chokes could be his best weapons.
Oliveira has shocked the world before. Can he do it again?
Fight Prediction: Who Wins the Rematch?
While Oliveira is one of the most dangerous finishers in UFC history, Makhachev’s wrestling, patience, and improved striking make him the favorite once again.
Official Prediction: Islam Makhachev Wins by Submission (Round 3).
Unless Oliveira finds an early finish, Makhachev’s pressure will likely be too much over five rounds.
What’s Next for the Winner?
🚀 If Makhachev wins, he might face a fresh challenger like Arman Tsarukyan or Justin Gaethje.
🚀 If Oliveira wins, a trilogy fight could be set up.
Either way, this fight could be a defining moment in UFC lightweight history.
