In the UFC, experience counts for a lot. Australian featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski intends to make the most of it when he faces Spanish contender Ilia Topuria.
Volkanovski made a memorable entrance at the official weigh-in, donning an outfit that portrayed him as an ‘experienced’ campaigner. Despite entertaining the audience, Topuria wasn’t amused.
On Sunday (AEDT), the two will square off in Anaheim, California. Returning to the 145-pound division, Volkanovski aims for a remarkable sixth title defense.
When questioned about his eccentric weigh-in attire, Volkanovski explained: “Just having a bit of fun with it, you know what I mean? You’ve got to do it. And for the people as well! Everyone appreciated the outfit so I wanted to do it in person. I think this old man needs to teach this young fella a lesson, what do you reckon?”
Topuria’s response was equally sharp. He said: “You see how you came dressed, you already know what’s going to happen. You came ready for retirement, old man.”
Volkanovski replied: “He’ll get a good spanking, that’s what’s gonna happen.”
Topuria tried to provoke him by saying: “He said he’s going to humble me. Stand up and do something. Humble me!”
The two got up, Volkanovski moving slowly like an elderly man.
Volkanovski stated: “Saturday night I’m gonna look mean and lean, I’m coming for my head.”
Topuria went on to say: “I’m gonna humble you, I’m gonna show you. I’m gonna walk (wipe) the floor with you.”
The verbal exchanges escalated with Volkanovski labeling Topuria a ‘Conor McGregor wannabe,’ highlighting the Spaniard’s adoption of some of the famous Irishman’s moves.
Volkanovski last competed in October after moving up to lightweight and accepting a rematch with Islam Makhachev with just 11 days’ notice. He lost the bout in the first round.
Volkanovski asserted that the goal of the championship match is for him to demonstrate his expertise and impart wisdom to the ‘young cocky kid.’
The Australian champion told AAP: “He has to talk a big game, he doesn’t really have much to back it. I just need to be that experienced fighter that goes out there and teaches the young cocky kid a lesson.”
Topuria is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt who has an undefeated 14-0 record in the division. This features eight wins via submission, four via knockout, and nine first-round finishes.
On the other hand, Volkanovski has held the 145-pound belt for a long time. He most recently competed at featherweight in July 2023 and defeated Yair Rodriguez by technical knockout.