Islam Makhachev will fly to Abu Dhabi 40 days before his title clash with Charles Oliveira in an attempt to avoid jet lag affecting his chances in the title fight.
The rising star will challenge for the lightweight title when he faces former champion Oliveira for the vacant strap at UFC 280 on October 22.. The fight will take place on the UFC's 'Fight Island' in Abu Dhabi, with Oliveira looking to reclaim his belt after being stripped of the title when he missed weight for his previous defence against Justin Gaethje.
Former undefeated 155lb champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has been Makhachev's mentor throughout his career, and called for his charge to receive a title shot. Now the Russian has received his chance at world honours, Nurmagomedov is expected to be heavily involved in his preparations.
