Alexander Volkanovski was completely cool during the entire UFC 298 news conference, even if challenger fighter Ilia Topuria snatched his belt. For the champ, that was the only moment the young fighter could touch the gold.
“The Great” made fun of the doubters and Topuria during the press conference event by dressing like an actual old man: a cardigan, a newsboy cap, and a pair of glasses. The 27-year-old, nonetheless, tried to continuously push Volkanovski to his limit during the event.
“You see how you can dress? You already know what’s going to happen,” Topuria said. “You just came ready for your retirement. Look how you look as an old man.”
Volkanovski, nonetheless, remained calm and even jokingly dozed off while the fighter was speaking. In hopes of completely annoying the 35-year-old, the Spanish fighter later grabbed the featherweight belt from the podium, which caused Volkanovski to stand up. Unfortunately for Topuria, despite telling the champ to “stand up and do something,” Volkanovski kept his composure and instead grilled him with his words.
“You might as well take advantage of it now,” Volkanovski said to Topuria. “You’re never going to see it again. Not until I teach you a lesson. Maybe one day you can be a great champion. I’m going to kick your ass first, you’ll learn your lesson, and maybe you can bounce back after that. Until then, get your hands off my belt.”
Conor McGregor did the same to Jose Aldo, who was undeniably angered by the move and tried to get to the Irish fighter. Volkanovski, who is aware of Topuria’s scheme and obsession with the Irish superstar, underscored the reference of the scene and promised to humble the challenger.
“Conor McGregor wannabe, huh? How about this bloke?” Volkanovski added. “I think this old man needs to teach this young fella a lesson.”
