Who is next for the lightweight belt after Mackhachev-Oliveira 2?

October 21st in Abu Dhabi marks one of the year's biggest cards as Charles Oliveira gets his rematch against current World Champion Islam Mackhachev at UFC 294. Islam looks to extend his win streak to 13, while Charles attempts to complete the task he set after losing the belt just a year ago, to get it back. Not being granted the immediate rematch despite being a dominant champion in his reign, Charles was given a difficult opponent in Beneil Dariush who was on an eight-fight win streak entering the bout. Overlooked by many, including the oddsmakers it seemed Charles' magical run was coming to an end. But as he has shown time and time again in his career, just when you think he is done, he puts on his best performance. After finishing Dariush in the first round it became clear he was next in line for a shot at the title. Now with that rematch just a couple weeks away, we look ahead to which fighters may be next in line for a shot at the belt. 

The first option is simple. If Charles wins the rematch, a trilogy will undoubtedly be the next fight to make.

If Islam can get the job done and knock off another challenger, the UFC will have a couple of options. Justin Gaetchje will likely be the first option, coming off a knockout win against one of the most well-rounded fighters and gatekeeper of the division, Dustin Poirier. It was clear that Gaethje has flipped a switch in his last couple of fights looking absolutely dominant against two of the top contenders in the division. Giving him another chance at the belt will certainly not rough the feathers of any MMA fans

The next option for a shot at the lightweight belt, if Islam retains the title, has to be Alexander Volkanovski. Their first fight was so close and controversial that I believe Volkanovski did enough for a rematch. Of course, this fight could hold up both divisions, but considering Alexander Volkanovski has continually dominated every contender in his division, it only makes sense to give him another chance at Islam. 

The UFC will have a tough decision to make when it comes time to decide the next fighter to get a shot at the lightweight title.