Alexander Volkanovski targets winner of Oliveira-Makhachev at UFC 280 for two-champ status

Alexander Volkanovski is targeting the winner of the lightweight title fight between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev in Abu Dhabi as he sets his sights on becoming a two-division UFC champion.

The featherweight belt-holder, for many the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport at present, is seeking to move up to 155lbs having earlier this month dominated regular 145lb-rival Max Holloway at UFC 276. The unanimous decision victory, a fourth successive title defence, lifted Volkanovski’s professional win streak to 22, leaving him looking to lightweight for his next challenge.

The Australian will therefore be paying close attention to the UFC’s return to Abu Dhabi in three months, after the promotion confirmed on Saturday that Oliveira and Makhachev will top the card at UFC 280 in a clash for the vacant lightweight title. The event takes place at Etihad Arena on October 22.

Speaking to The MMA Hour late on Monday, Volkanovski said he wanted a lightweight title shot early next year as he recovers from a broken hand sustained against Holloway.

Asked who he expected to win between Oliveira and Makhachev in Abu Dhabi, he replied: “At the end of the day I just want the belt. I think the better fight is definitely Charles Oliveira. He’s got so much hype on him now.

Islam Makhachev submits Dan Hooker in their lightweight bout at UFC 267 at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on October 30, 2021. Chris Whiteoak / The National

"Look at how exciting he is, we know it’s going to be an exciting fight. There’s a reason why he’s exciting to watch. Obviously, I have a lot of respect for him, but I think a lot of people miss the fact that he takes damage. He loses a good portion of these big, exciting fights – that’s why they’re