Islam Makhachev is set to face Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi to defend his title. However, an injury might jeopardize the fight.
Islam Makhachev recently defeated Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 by submission in the fifth round. Following the bout, Makhachev revealed a hand injury sustained from his fight with Poirier. With a potential matchup against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 308, Makhachev’s plans could be subject to change.
Islam Makhachev reveals a partial ligament tear from recent MRI scans.
He's uncertain about fighting in October and might need surgery if he can’t recover in time. Makhachev hopes to compete before the year ends and plans to do so if possible. pic.twitter.com/QAdeLtq7Im
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) July 30, 2024
Recent MRI results have been concerning for Makhachev. He mentioned, “After the Poirier fight, I felt pain in my hand, and many things were injured,” he told Ushatayka. “We will take some time. Everything heals little by little. But my hand continues to bother me. The recent MRI confirmed that I have a partial ligament tear. We will see if I can recover. If not, I may need surgery.”
Will Islam Makhachev Miss UFC 308?
Islam Makhachev claims he is in the rehabilitation phase and appears pessimistic about his participation in UFC 308.
“It’s not certain that I will participate in UFC 308. We haven’t discussed the fight yet. I’m doing rehabilitation every day. We’ll see how the hand progresses.”
In response to fan criticism for his inactivity as a champion, Makhachev emphasized his desire to defend his title.
“I really want to fight before the end of the year. I intend to. So far, I haven’t even thought about not performing. I want to come in good shape, ready, so nothing will hinder me. Before the last fight, there were also many minor injuries. They all accumulated somehow. I want to give my body time to recover.”
If the champion recovers in time, he might defend his title against Arman Tsarukyan on October 26 in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, French fighter Cyril Gane will be facing Alexander Volkov, with “Bon Gamin” looking to deliver a strong performance following Tom Aspinall’s success.
The reactions from fighter row 👀 #UFC300 pic.twitter.com/CBd7xn353B
— UFC (@ufc) April 14, 2024
Analysis and Questions:
- Will Islam Makhachev Be Able to Compete at UFC 308?
- Given his current injury and rehabilitation status, is it realistic for Makhachev to participate in UFC 308?
- How Serious is Makhachev’s Injury?
- What are the potential implications of a partial ligament tear on Makhachev’s fighting career and future performance?
- What Are Makhachev’s Plans if He Cannot Compete?
- If Makhachev is unable to recover in time, what might be the impact on his title defense and UFC 308’s fight card?
- How Will Makhachev Address Fan Criticism?
- In light of the criticism about his inactivity, how does Makhachev plan to manage public expectations and his fighting schedule?
- What Are the Implications for UFC 308 if Makhachev Withdraws?
- How would Makhachev’s potential withdrawal affect the event, especially with the anticipated fight against Arman Tsarukyan and other scheduled bouts?
- What Are Cyril Gane’s Chances Against Alexander Volkov?
- How does Cyril Gane’s upcoming fight with Alexander Volkov fit into the broader UFC 308 lineup, and what can be expected from his performance?
