Despite the loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 294, Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski is ready to fight again and face a perilous, unbeaten Ilia “El Matador” Topuria at UFC 298. According to the Australian professional mixed martial artist, the opponent’s hunger and confidence need humbling, pushing him to take the bout in February.
Volkanovski is just fresh from his rematch loss to Makhachev in the main event of UFC 294 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The bout only lasted 3 minutes and 6 seconds after Makhachev delivered a nasty head kick, which knocked out Volkanovski. It can be recalled that prior to that, Makhachev defeated Volkanovski at UFC 284 in February, and the rematch was made possible after ex-champ Charles Oliveira was forced to withdraw from UFC 294 due to injury. Despite the short notice, Volkanovski took the chance, which ended horribly for him.
This, nonetheless, doesn’t stop Volkanovski from taking another fight against the “hungry” El Matador, who should appear like a threat given his 14-0-0 record. His last fight is against Josh Emmett, who lost to him via unanimous decision in May.
The featherweight bout was originally scheduled for January, but Volkanovski said it was a “little bit too soon,” especially after Makhachev’s victory over him. Despite that, The Great is determined to fight Topuria after his recovery, noting that the Georgian and Spanish professional mixed martial artist needs to be taught a lesson.
“He’s a powerful dude, he’s good everywhere,” said Volkanovski. “He’s not one-dimensional; he’s obviously very well-rounded. I just believe my skills and my understanding of the game is just gonna be that little bit too much for him. He’s a young, hungry dude. Undefeated, very, very confident, but I think he needs a little bit of humbling.”
The fight between the two will be on February 17th, 2024. The location is still unconfirmed, but current rumors claim it would be set in Los Angeles, California.
