Islam Makhachev Expresses Disappointment of UFC's Promotion for 284 Event
by FARUK IMAMOVIC | VIEW 411
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 284 event is set to take place in Perth, Australia in just one week, featuring a highly anticipated match between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski. While the featherweight champion is eager to win another belt, he'll have his work cut out for him, as Makhachev currently holds the lightweight championship title.
Promotion of the Event Falls Short
Despite the excitement surrounding this fight, some have noticed that the UFC's promotion for the event has been lackluster. Islam Makhachev himself expressed his disappointment, stating in an interview: "I see that it is not such big promotion.
Dana White himself has some problems. He does not pay much attention to this fight. Here in Perth, everyone knows about the fight and is looking forward to it. And in terms of pay-per-view, yes, more could have been done. I only saw Volkanovski once, in Sydney.
A tour could be organized around the world. A (news) conference could be held in America." This is a concerning issue, especially when the fighters themselves begin to take notice of a lack of promotion. Makhachev's comments highlight the potential this fight had, and the disappointment felt when the UFC fails to capitalize on it.
Fighting Without a Mentor
Makhachev won't have his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, in his corner for the upcoming fight, something he admits will be a challenge. In a previous interview, Makhachev stated, "When he’s in the corner, it’s much better.
We saw it in Abu Dhabi. Some trifle, or you lose control. He will tell you: ‘Slow down here. Add more pressure here.’ When you have such an experienced person in your corner, it’s undeniable that you have advantage." The UFC must step up its game, as other organizations are rapidly catching up.
While the UFC remains at the top of the game, continuing to fall short in promotions could change this in the future.