Ilia Topuria is oozing confidence as he gears up for the biggest fight of his career at UFC 298. Despite Alexander Volkanovski’s undefeated record at 145lbs, Topuria is convinced he can secure a first-round knockout. Volkanovski’s recent knockout loss to UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev fuels Topuria’s belief that he can take the belt.
Volkanovski has navigated through the best in the featherweight division, facing formidable opponents. Topuria, with victories over the likes of Bryce Mitchell and Josh Emmett, is no stranger to high-level competition. A new name in the historically top-heavy featherweight division, Topuria seeks to assert himself as the man to finally dethrone the Australian sensation.
Ilia Topuria and His Self Belief
In an interview with UFC Español, Ilia Topuria laid out his victory plans against Alexander Volkanovski, stating, “I see myself finishing him in the first round – knockout. Unless he goes for my legs, it’s likely to be a knockout. I’m set to turn his lights out.”
As part of the new MMA generation, Ilia Topuria emphasises an evolved style across all aspects of the sport: striking, wrestling, and grappling. He boldly claims, “I’m a more complete and effective finisher than Volkanovski.”
Acknowledging Volkanovski’s experience, Topuria asserts, “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.”
Topuria’s challenge comes at an opportune moment, with Volkanovski looking to bounce back from a devastating knockout. Topuria enters the fight with momentum on his side. Undefeated with a win over former interim title challenger Josh Emmett behind him, Ilia Topuria is set to capitalise on his hype.
“I won’t say it’s been the toughest camp, but it’s been the most professional,” Topuria reflects on his preparation. “We’ve done a deep analysis on my opponent, and we’re prepared for the fight.”
Do you see Ilia Topuria dethroning the champ? Let us know!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
