Islam Makhachev isn’t letting cheating allegations get to him.
The UFC Lightweight Champion successfully defended his title against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, where he won by unanimous decision. However, the win amassed controversy not only for the scorecards but also for Makhachev allegedly using an I.V. to rehydrate following his weight cut.
This claim was made by Dan Hooker, a teammate of Volkanovski’s and former foe of Makhachev.
Makhachev Addresses Cheating Allegations
In turn, Makhachev has shut down these accusations of cheating, citing he did not use an I.V. The Russian says he has only been accused by ‘Hangman’, not the UFC or USADA, the promotion’s anti-doping agency. Makhachev also wants justice for his name being dragged through the mud.
“No official institution has accused me of anything, neither the UFC nor USADA,” Makhachev said in Russian (translated by Red Corner MMA). “It’s just a few salty guys from Volkanovski’s team accusing me with no proof. [The UFC] and the athletic commission should settle this and punish those who make such unsubstantiated accusations.
“I can’t put an I.V. because that’s forbidden,” Makhachev stated. “I don’t do that stuff.
Makhachev Wants To ‘Lead By Example’
After addressing cheating allegations once more, Islam Makhachev aims to inspire the people of Dagestan after his first title defense.
“I want to lead by example for our guys,” Makhachev continued. “The gyms in Dagestan are packed. I want to be a positive influence. I want to show that any guy from a simply family can train every day, set a goal and work towards it. Someone who works towards their goal will eventually achieve something.”
