Alexander Volkanovski's brutal slap down of 'cocky' Ilia Topuria move ahead of UFC 298

Alexander Volkanovski has slammed Ilia Topuria for arrogantly putting 'UFC champion' in his social media bios before the pair fight for the undisputed title this weekend. The UFC champion told Fox Sports Australia that Topuria's attitude comes from being surrounded by 'yes men' and claims he's never had to put in the work like he has to get to the top of the sport.

"It shows he’s happy having things given to him," Volkanovski said. "I’ve earned everything, I’ve earned the championship in my bio, I’ve earned my title, earned my followers, you name it I’ve earned it all. I don’t see him doing the same."

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Volkanovski comes into the UFC 298 main event under different circumstances than he is accustomed to, after losing his last fight up a weight class to Islam Makhachev in October. Makhachev, the lightweight champion since October 2022, brutally knocked Volkanovski out in the first round and consigned him to just his second loss since making his UFC debut in 2016.

The Aussie believes that loss has likely given his opponent a false sense of confidence, with Topuria currently recording a documentary titled 'Road to the Belt' - which will give a behind-the-scenes look into his title fight preparations. But Volkanovski says the Spaniard needs to prepare a film sequel, declaring he won't be beating him this time.

"This documentary … they’re going to need an extra one because the road to the title isn’t going to be accomplished, he ain’t getting it this time," he said.

Volkanovski says while his opponent possesses natural talent he doesn't have the work ethic it takes to dethrone him as champion, even going as far as to say a loss on Sunday may actually benefit him in his quest to become champion. "I go out there, teach him a lesson, he wakes up to himself and realises he ain’t a superstar."

"He starts getting in the gym, do what counts, earns his stripes. (Laughs) I’m always looking out for everyone, even my opponents. I’m going to do this so maybe one day he can be champion. Because he ain’t going to be a great champion with that mentality and the way he carries himself. I don’t like it. He thinks he’s an absolute superstar already."

Alexander Volkanovski hasn't given up hope of another fight with Islam Makhachev

Volkanovski admits it was "silly" to have fought Makhachev on just 11 days notice but still holds out hope that he can get another chance to become the first fighter since Conor McGregor in 2016 to hold both the UFC lightweight and featherweight belts at once.

"I'm a realist, I'm not expecting a rematch (with Makhachev) straight away," he said. "With the age thing, there's obviously going to be some people doubting and want to know if his time's done, which is hyping up this fight so I'm all good with it.

"I'm going to go out there, take care of Ilia, and then we'll see what's next. But lightweight's definitely in the near future."

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