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Charles Oliveira accused of avoiding UFC 294 fight with Islam Makhachev: ‘He never wanted to go to Abu Dhabi’

Former undisputed lightweight champion, Charles Oliveira has been accused of never actually wanting to fight rival, Islam Makhachev for a second time this weekend at UFC 294 – due to the bout taking place in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Oliveira, the current number one ranked lightweight contender under the banner of the promotion, was slated to headline UFC 294 this weekend in the MIddle East in a championship rematch with Makhachev, however, was forced from the bout on just 10 days’ notice after he suffered a laceration over his right eyebrow.

In his place comes undisputed featherweight champion and pound-for-pound number one, Alexander Volkanovski – who replaces Oliveira and himself lands a title fight rematch with Makhachev at the Etihad Arena.