Alexander Volkanovski understands the challenge he faces at UFC 290 and believes the only way he could lose to a featherweight opponent is through someone landing a lucky punch. As he prepares for his title unification bout against interim champion Yair Rodriguez, Volkanovski acknowledges Rodriguez’s dangerous abilities but remains confident in his own fight IQ, resilience, and durability. Despite recognizing the threat Rodriguez poses, Volkanovski emphasizes that he doesn’t see anyone beating him and attributes his success to his well-rounded skills. Although Volkanovski’s recent attempt at becoming a two-division champion fell short, he remains undefeated as a UFC featherweight with a 10-0 record and has defeated top contenders such as Max Holloway, Brian Ortega, and Chan Sung Jung.
Volkanovski acknowledges the growth and maturity in Rodriguez’s skill set, praising his ability to excel in all ranges of combat. While Rodriguez’s journey to title contention involved overcoming setbacks and losses, his victory over Josh Emmett showcased his progress. Despite Rodriguez holding the interim belt, Volkanovski does not feel disrespected by the media and fans referring to Mexico having three champions, recognizing that his own position as the reigning champion solidifies his status.
Looking ahead, Volkanovski expresses his desire for a rematch against Islam Makhachev and hopes to secure that fight at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi. However, he also expresses interest in facing rising Spanish contender Ilia Topuria, who recently earned an impressive victory over Emmett. Volkanovski sees Topuria as a fresh and exciting opponent, but he considers Yair Rodriguez to be a more significant threat. Regardless, Volkanovski intends to focus on his upcoming fight against Rodriguez and then assess his options for future opponents. He emphasizes his eagerness to stay active and continue fighting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC featherweight champion
Q: Who is Alexander Volkanovski’s upcoming opponent in the UFC 290?
A: Alexander Volkanovski’s upcoming opponent in UFC 290 is Yair Rodriguez. They will be competing in a title unification bout.
Q: How does Alexander Volkanovski view his chances of losing to a featherweight opponent?
A: Alexander Volkanovski believes the only way he could lose to a featherweight is if someone lands a lucky punch. He emphasizes his fight IQ, resilience, and durability as factors that make him confident in his abilities.
Q: Has Alexander Volkanovski faced any losses as a UFC featherweight?
A: No, Alexander Volkanovski remains undefeated as a UFC featherweight with a record of 10-0 in the octagon at 145 pounds.
Q: What is Alexander Volkanovski’s desired next fight after UFC 290?
A: Alexander Volkanovski is determined to secure a rematch against Islam Makhachev and hopes to have that fight at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi.
Q: Who is another potential opponent Alexander Volkanovski is interested in fighting?
A: Alexander Volkanovski has his eyes on Ilia Topuria, a fast-rising Spanish contender with a 6-0 record in the UFC. He considers Topuria to be a fresh and exciting opponent.
Q: How does Alexander Volkanovski feel about being referred to as the real champion despite Yair Rodriguez holding the interim belt?
A: Alexander Volkanovski does not take offense when fans and media refer to Mexico as having three champions in the UFC, including Yair Rodriguez as the interim champion. He confidently asserts that he is the real champion and does not need to worry about anything else.
More about UFC featherweight champion
- UFC Featherweight Division
- Alexander Volkanovski UFC Profile
- Yair Rodriguez UFC Profile
- UFC 290 Event Details
- Alexander Volkanovski vs. Yair Rodriguez Fight Preview
- UFC 294 Event Details
- Ilia Topuria UFC Profile
