UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski was recently caught off guard during an interview when shown a render of a statue supposedly being built in his honor in his hometown.
The Australian fighter, who recently reclaimed his featherweight title against Diego Lopes, was visibly shocked when presented with the image of what was claimed to be his commemorative statue planned for “the middle of the city” in Illawarra.
“Did you hear, have you read the local Illawarra Mercury? Well, they’ve built a giant statue for you in the middle of the city,” the interviewer told Volkanovski, showing him the render.
Volkanovski’s immediate reaction was one of disbelief and confusion. Initially thinking it was a prank similar to controversial statues made of soccer stars David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo in the past, the champion was assured this was a legitimate project.
“I don’t have that many wrinkles, do I?” Volkanovski questioned, examining the image closer. “I mean, I’m getting older. I get it.”
The bewildered fighter continued to study the image, becoming increasingly concerned about the likeness. The statue appeared to show an aged version of the champion with exaggerated features that Volkanovski clearly felt didn’t represent him accurately.
Throughout the exchange, Volkanovski repeatedly questioned the authenticity of the statue, convinced it must be a prank. “You’re taking the piss, sure,” he said, using the Australian slang for joking around.
The interviewers maintained the seriousness of the project, insisting they had contacted the newspaper to get the render and that this was meant to be “the big announcement.”
In a moment of candor, Volkanovski expressed his honest opinion: “Well, he’s got to change it, sorry,” suggesting the artist should reconsider the design before proceeding with the actual construction.
The video, shared on Volkanovski’s social media with the caption highlighting his reaction, has amused fans worldwide. It showcases the champion’s humility and sense of humor in the face of what would be a significant honor—if it were indeed real.
Volkanovski prepares for his next potential title defense, possibly against Movsar Evloev or Yair Rodriguez, this lighthearted moment provides fans with a glimpse of the champion’s personality outside the octagon.
Whether the statue is a genuine project or an elaborate prank remains unclear, but Volkanovski’s genuine reaction has certainly entertained the MMA community.
