Russia’s Makhachev makes bold prediction for UFC title fight

The Dagestani believes he will finish Charles Oliveira in the third round at UFC 280

Islam Makhachev has confidently named the round in which he believes he will finish Charles Oliveira when the two lightweight fighters face off for the division's title at UFC 280 in Abu Dhabi on October 22.

Brazilian former champion Oliveira was stripped of the belt on the scales for coming in half a pound over weight before his meeting with Justin Gaethje at UFC 274 in May.

After disposing of the American in the first round in front of his hometown crowd in Phoenix, Oliveira immediately secured the chance to grab back the 155lbs strap with only Khabib Nurmagomedov's protege and rising 22-1 contender Makhachev standing in his way.

Sharing an official promo of the upcoming fight on Twitter, Makhachev laid out his game plan in full for one of the most anticipated bouts in years.

"First round warm up, second round drag him to deep water, third round get business done," Makachev said, adding: "Inshallah. Can’t wait for Oct 22."

First round warm up, second round drag him to deep water, third round get business done Inshallah ✅ Can’t wait for Oct 22