Alexander Volkanovski intends to bring A+ version against Ilia Topuria unlike last outing: “The last time I wasn’t in there”
Former UFC champion Alexander Volkanovski regrets not being himself in the first fight against Ilia Topuria at UFC 298.
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Alexander Volkanovski talks about his loss against Ilia Topuria (via Imago)
Alexander Volkanovski is regarded as one of the best featherweights in the history of UFC. The fighter has run through the division and defended his belt on multiple occasions. However, his reign unfortunately ended when he met Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. Now, Volk is ready to bounce back in the rematch.
Latest reports have suggested that the UFC is looking forward to making a title rematch between Volkanovski and Topuria at UFC 314. The Aussie MMA legend recently did an interview where he was asked about the potential rematch. In response, the Australian superstar talked about his mistakes in the last fight.
The last time I was in there, I just didn’t fight my fight. If I fight my fight and lose, I’d be okay with that. But the fact that I didn’t feel like I fought my fight… that doesn’t sit well with me.
Alexander Volkanovski via LucasTracyMMA
Volkanovski also promised that in the rematch he wouldn’t make the same mistake and would bring new tricks to fight against someone like Ilia Topuria. After beating Volkanovski, the Georgian-Spaniard went on to knock out BMF champion Max Holloway to establish his dominance. Topuria is one of the most complete fighters on the UFC roster and has the confidence and skill set to finish anybody.
Alexander Volkanovski says he didn’t fight his fight against Ilia Topuria, and that will change in the rematch. 💪
— MMA.PROS.PICK (@MMAPROSPICK) January 14, 2025
"The last time I was in there, I just didn’t fight my fight. If I fight my fight and lose, I’d be okay with that. But the fact that I didn’t feel like I fought my… pic.twitter.com/dCsuGwl5MQ
Volkanovski, in his title run, looked unbeatable too and many believe that his downfall started when he moved up to fight Islam Makhachev. Volk lost twice against the pound-for-pound number one (second time on short-notice) and rushed the comeback against Topuria. It would be interesting to see how the fighter changes his fighting style in the potential rematch.
Alexander Volkanovski predicts Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan
UFC 311 is just around the corner with the main event bout between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan. Both fighters will clash for the UFC lightweight title and the hype around it is massive. The Dagestani is the fan favorite and is confident to keep his undisputed reign.
On the other hand, the underdog isn’t concerned about the pressure and believes he has a secret technique to beat Makhachev. In his recent YouTube video, Alexander Volkanovski talked about this upcoming fight and shared his honest thoughts. According to the former pound-for-pound ace, Makhachev does have the edge over the challenger.
I’m gonna go with Islam. So well rounded, shown his striking. So, I think Arman’s gonna have trouble on the feet. Islam is hard to fight. He’s very good at distance, very good at catching you coming in.
Alexander Volkanovski via his YouTube channel
The first time the pair came against each other, Tsarukyan was young and still was able to give tough competition to Makhachev. Now years after developing his skills, the fighter plans to exploit the champion’s weakness and take the crown. While the odds are against him, it won’t be surprising to see an upset at UFC 311.
Related: Is Alexander Volkanovski a chef? Learn about UFC featherweight champ’s impressive cooking skills
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Ameetosh Dash
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