UFC 294 has come to a close, and despite facing setbacks with the main and co-main events, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) found redemption through the courageous efforts of Alexander Volkanovski and Kamaru Usman. Both fighters stepped in on short notice, salvaging the event and showcasing their resilience in the octagon.

In a surprising turn of events, Volkanovski accepted the challenge to face reigning Lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, after Charles Oliveira withdrew due to a training injury. The Australian fighter, determined to avenge his loss earlier this year, put up a valiant fight but unfortunately suffered a first-round knockout defeat. Nevertheless, Volkanovski remains the Featherweight champion, making his next opponent easier to find, with Ilia Topuria waiting for his chance to prove himself.

Usman, on the other hand, demonstrated his commitment to the sport by stepping in to replace Paulo Costa and face Khamzat Chimaev. The former Welterweight champion faced a tough challenge but showcased his resilience, taking the fight the distance and losing by majority decision. Usman struggled in the opening round but found his rhythm in the later rounds, displaying his fighting spirit despite Chimaev's dominance. It is worth noting that Chimaev revealed he couldn't unleash his full potential as his hand was broken during the fight.

While Usman's loss marked his third consecutive defeat, it did not tarnish his reputation. The former champion's previous unbeaten streak of eight years and 19 fights remains a remarkable achievement. Usman's willingness to answer the call and give his all against a formidable opponent earned him the respect of fans and fellow fighters alike.

Looking ahead, Usman's next move is uncertain. He may choose to stay at Middleweight, calling out Dricus Du Plessis for a main card bout at UFC 300. However, it remains to be seen if Du Plessis will accept the fight, as he was already lined up for a title shot. Alternatively, a matchup against Paulo Costa could be a possibility, adding excitement to the middleweight division.

Although UFC 294 faced significant challenges with multiple withdrawals, the bravery and determination of fighters like Volkanovski and Usman salvaged the event and kept fans engaged. Despite the outcome of their fights, both fighters leave a lasting impression as they continue to inspire others with their willingness to step up and compete on short notice. The future holds promising opportunities for these warriors as they seek new challenges and look to make their mark in the UFC.