Rafael dos Anjos vs Islam Makhachev was set to be an exciting fight in one of the most talent stacked divisions in the UFC. Makhachev is currently ranked at #12; Dos Anjos is not in the top 15. ‘RDA’ however, is a tough challenge at lightweight irrespective of rankings.
The fight would have been an excellent opportunity for Islam Makhachev to prove himself against an elite opponent. However, the fight has been canceled for the second time now. This means the UFC will have to put together another main event for UFC Fight Night on November 14.
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Rafael dos Anjos vs Islam Makhachev canceled for the second time; ‘RDA’ calls out his next opponent
Following news of Islam pulling out of the fight, Dos Anjos took to Twitter to state what he wanted next. He Tweeted saying, “I wish (Islam Makhachev) a speed recovery. Looking for a new partner to dance. Looks like (Michael Chandler) is ready to go. Your move!”
I wish @MAKHACHEVMMA a speed recovery. Looking for a new partner to dance. Looks like @MikeChandlerMMA is ready to go. Your move!
— Rafael dos Anjos (@RdosAnjosMMA) November 9, 2020
The fight between Makhachev and Dos Anjos was supposed to take place on Fight Island at UFC 254. However, Dos Anjos tested positive for COVID-19 and had to be withdrawn from the card. Subsequently, the UFC rescheduled the fight for a Fight Night main event.
With Makhachev now out of the fight, Rafael dos Anjos has his eyes set on UFC newcomer Michael Chandler. ‘Iron’ is the former Bellator lightweight champion who the UFC recently signed. His first assignment as a UFC fighter was to be the backup for the main event at UFC 254.
However, since the fight between Khabib and Gaethje went ahead, Chandler did not get to display his skills to a new set of audience. Chandler has maintained that he would like to get into the Octagon as soon as possible. However, he has mentioned the likes of Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje as possible opponents.
Taking a fight against Rafael dos Anjos could be a good way for Michael Chandler to display his skills against a fighter rated highly by fans and pundits alike.
Do you think Michael Chandler will accept a short notice fight against Rafael dos Anjos? If not, who should Dos Anjos fight next? Let us know in the comments below.
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