Midnight Mania! Alleged Makhachev IV Use Labeled ‘Complete BS’

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Welcome to Midnight Mania!

It wouldn’t be a super fight without a bit of controversy.

UFC 284’s main event between Alexander Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev really exceeded expectations (watch highlights here). Volkanovski was able to push Makhachev more than any prior opponent despite the size disadvantage, resulting in a highly skilled and closely contested fight that some fans thought the Australian won. Nevertheless, Makhachev was awarded the victory in a game of inches.

Clearly, it was a fight where every little aspect counted, which is perhaps why UFC Lightweight Dan Hooker, Volkanovski team mate, and former Makhachev opponent Dan Hooker didn’t hold his peace. The day after UFC 284, Hooker took to Twitter to accuse Makhachev of rehydrating via an intravenous infusion. The problem? IV usage has been banned by United States Anti Drug Administration (USADA) since 2016. Prior to banning, IVs were commonly used by athletes to rehydrate after gnarly weight cuts, allowing quicker recovery and less time spend dehydrated.

Islam Makhachev definitely cuts a lot of weight, and he was surely feeling that strain in the championship rounds. Nevertheless, Makhachev’s team responded on Monday. One of his managers, Rizvan Magomedov, issued a statement to MMA Junkie outright denying the accusations, as well as attributing Hooker’s claims to sour grapes.

“We all know this is completely BS,” Magomedov said. “The guy is a loser. He’s salty and just looking for attention, and that’s it.”

Stay tuned for further developments.

Insomnia

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Al Iaquinta accidentally describes the last three years of UFC fights:

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Slips, rips, and KO clips

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Sometimes, letting the ref know you’re in control and the other guy can’t do anything is enough.

Caught the kick and took his time with the follow up …

Random Land

Cats do not abide by the laws of nature, but goats defy gravity.

Midnight Music: Alternative, 1993

Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.