Henry Cejudo expects Islam Makhachev to beat Alexander Volkanovski; calls for a fight with the featherweight Champion
While making an appearance on Michael Bisping's 'Believe You Me' podcast, Henry Cejudo discussed Islam Makhachev's proposed title defense against Alexander Volkanovski and a potential future fight with the featherweight king.
'Triple C' transitioned into mixed martial arts almost ten years ago and has been a fantastic addition to the sport. The Olympic gold medalist brought elite-level wrestling with him into the cage. As he gained experience in MMA, he developed an incredibly efficient striking game that helped elevate him to the title.
During a recent interview with Michael Bisping, Henry Cejudo shared his thoughts about the potential bout between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski. He also revealed his future in the octagon.
"The only other one that I want [after Aljamain Sterling] is the Volkanovski fight. Right now, the UFC is protecting Alexander Volkanovski, because they know Islam's about to put an a** whooping on him... This guy that has this one style that's going to overwhelm Volkanovski and completely take him out. The pound-for-pound king is about to get served up... I'll be ready for February too, [so] if Aljash**stain is going to take those nine months, then give me Alexander 'The Average'."
Cejudo has been angling for a comeback bout against the 145lb champion for some time. He may have to settle for either a bantamweight title shot against Aljamain Sterling or meet other 135lb contenders before facing the Australian.
Sean O'Malley is a surprising option for 'The Messenger' to return and fight, but both 'Sugar' and the bantamweight champion seem to be avoiding any potential clash against the Olympian.
Check out what Henry Cejudo had to say about Alexander Volkanovski in the video below.
Is Alexander Volkanovski the right matchup for Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev just beat potentially the most in-form athlete on the planet in Charles Oliveira last time out. Should he be taking on a fighter coming up from a lower weight division?
While there are a handful of legit competitors in his weight class, the Russian is arguably taking the best option available to him. A win over the featherweight champion would give him much more than just another big name on his resume.
Islam Makhachev could steal away Volkanovski's pound-for-pound #1 spot and be recognized as the best active fighter in the sport just one fight into his lightweight title reign.