Ilia Topuria, undefeated in his professional career spanning 14 bouts, confidently asserts that his impending title bout against featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 is mere formality.
Set to headline the event on February 17 in Anaheim, California, the 27-year-old fighter, with six UFC matches under his belt, eyes his most significant career victory yet against the renowned 145-pound champion.
Despite Volkanovski’s remarkable track record in the division, Topuria boldly predicts the reigning champion will falter against the challenges he presents.
In a recent interview on The MMA Hour, Topuria didn’t mince words: “It’s going to be a first-round knockout. You will see.” Dismissing Volkanovski’s assertions about levels and skills, Topuria asserts his dominance, declaring, “There are levels, then there is me.”
Confident in his abilities, he foresees a one-sided encounter, vowing to showcase his superiority and reduce Volkanovski to a mere punching bag. With conviction, he proclaims, “I will be dancing Feb. 17.”
Volkanovski, having suffered two losses in his last three fights, both to lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, finds himself under Topuria’s scrutiny. Topuria suggests that the upcoming bout will reveal signs of Volkanovski’s decline.
Despite acknowledging Volkanovski’s past accomplishments, Topuria delivers a sobering message: “He’s old. It’s time to move on. It’s time for the new generation.” Confidently representing the evolution of mixed martial arts, Topuria positions himself as the torchbearer for the sport’s future.
Looking ahead to his potential championship reign, Topuria remains focused on the task at hand. While uncertain about his next opponent, he’s certain about one thing: there won’t be any talk of a rematch.
With unwavering determination, Topuria exudes confidence in his ability to seize the title and usher in a new era in the featherweight division.
