Getty Image / Chris Unger
The UFC is set to return to Abu Dhabi on October 21 and nobody knows who is going to be on that card just yet.
Typically, whenever fights are scheduled in Abu Dhabi, the organization ensures to have a loaded event.
There is a ton of speculation that lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is going to be on that card, but it’s not clear who his opponent will be.
With rumors that Charles Oliveira won’t be ready for UFC 294, there’s a real chance Alexander Volkanovski gets his rematch with Islam Makhachev.
However, the current lightweight champion seems to have a different opponent in mind. One that could potentially make him the organization’s next double champ.
Makhachev took to social media and floated the idea of himself taking on welterweight champion Leon Edwards in Abu Dhabi.
UFC Abu Dhabi, October 21st
Makhachev vs Edwards
What do you think? @ufc @espnmma— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) July 18, 2023
All things considering, it’s actually an intriguing matchup. Makhachev is known for his aggressive wrestling style while Edwards is more known for his boxing and kickboxing skills.
Even so, Leon Edwards’ wrestling is vastly under rated, which is what makes this potential matchup so enticing.
Although that may be true, fight fans can’t seem to agree on who they think Makhachev should fight next. Especially considering he has yet to defend his belt against anyone in the lightweight division.
This guy has had 1 title defense and it’s against the 145 champ….
— PropAholic (@MMA_PropAholic) July 18, 2023
Pretty solid debate going on in the mentions.
If he wants to fight, he’s gonna have to move divisions for now because all the top lightweights plus Volkanovski either just fought or are about to fight, so his only other options are at 170
— 𝙺𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚊 𝙺𝚕𝚊𝚢 (@Klay_SZN) July 18, 2023
Some people just want to see a good fight.
I think this is a great match up.
— MistressAIPRO (@MistressAIPRO) July 18, 2023
Should the UFC make a rule change?
I really wish the UFC could make a rule that a champ must defend his belt at least 3 times before they can try for this
— Jeff MacDonald (@jmacyourlife) July 18, 2023
Edwards may already have other plans.
No, Colby Vs Leon is next
— Oscar Buglass (@BuglassOscar) July 18, 2023
For now, there’s really no telling who Islam Makhachev will face next in the UFC.
Considering the top lightweight contenders are going head-to-head later in July at UFC 291, Makhachev probably won’t fight Dustin Poirier or Justin Gaethje in October.
Additionally, Alexander Volkanovski is trying to rush his return from elbow injury while Leon Edwards might be matched up with Colby Covington.
Hopefully, an announcement is made soon for the Abu Dhabi card, as it’s already highly anticipated.