In the upcoming UFC 298 main event, Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria are set to clash, with Topuria expressing confidence that it will be the easiest fight of his unbeaten career. Ilia Topuria, the undefeated featherweight contender, is confidently predicting a first-round knockout against current champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298.
He considers the fighting camp before the Volkanovski bout to be the most professional due to its thorough analysis of the opponent as he told UFC Español: “I’m not going to say it’s been the toughest camp because every camp we do is always hard, but I will say it’s been the most professional camp I’ve ever done. We’ve done a deep analysis on my opponent, and we’re prepared for the fight.”
In preparation for Alexander Volkanovski, Ilia Topuria reveals that he has been training with Guram Kutateladze, citing Kutateladze’s style as “quite similar” to the champion’s.
Ilia Topuria says that he's been training with Guram Kutateladze in preparation for Alexander Volkanovski because he has a style "quite similar to him". 🔥
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Ilia Topuria confident of win against Alexander Volkanovski
Despite Volkanovski’s impeccable 10-year career record at 145 pounds, Topuria is convinced he will dethrone and finish him on February 17. Topuria, with a 14-0 MMA record and a 6-0 UFC record, believes that Volkanovski’s time at the top has expired at 35 and considers himself an upgrade to the champion, being a better overall fighter.
“I’m part of the new generation of MMA,” he went on, “I bring an evolved style in all areas of the sport: on the feet, in the wrestling, in the grappling. I consider myself a far more complete and effective finisher than Volkanovski.”
Despite acknowledging Volkanovski’s experience, Topuria emphasizes the advantage of youthful vigor. “The experience is on his side, but the young blood is on my side. This is my moment. God’s timing is perfect, and He’s prepared me for this moment. There won’t be any failure,” he added. [H/T MMA Junkie]
In an interview with Michael Bisping, Volkanovski predicted a finish in the UFC 298 main event, emphasizing his belief in outclassing Topuria in both striking and grappling. Confident in his skills, Volkanovski anticipates landing significant blows and securing a finish in the upcoming bout.
The surging contender holds an impressive 6-0 record in the promotion, aiming to make a mark against the undefeated Volkanovski, who boasts a remarkable title reign at 145 pounds. Volkanovski, known as ‘The Great,’ remains undefeated in the featherweight division and has defeated notable opponents during his reign.