Ilia Topuria, carrying a perfect record of 14-0-0, stands out as the focal point, with no clear challenger in sight. Alexander Volkanovski, listed at 26-3-0, remains a hypothetical matchup rather than a definite confrontation. In a candid interview on COPE this Thursday, Topuria declared his intention to win by knockout in the opening round. The Matador is approaching fight week with the belief that the title is within reach, and he brings the discipline of training from Spain into the American arena.
The Spanish-Georgian fighter stresses that his confidence is not a sign of disrespect toward Volkanovski. He acknowledges the Australian champion’s achievements, noting that Volkanovski rose to the summit, defended the belt five times, and remained undefeated at featherweight. Respect is earned through hard work, Topuria explains, repeatedly being the first in the gym and the last to leave as proof of his dedication.
Topuria has built a reputation for provocative exchanges, a trait that has often unsettled rivals. This time, the dynamic is different. The UFC 298 main event, set for the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, is already shaping up as a defining moment for the Spaniard. He asserts that Volkanovski should appear, and he will take care of the rest.
Knocked out in the first round
Topuria asserts with conviction that the finish will come in the first round. He describes a lifetime of preparation, not merely for this camp but for the moment he believes he has visualized countless times. With less than a week until the fight, the focus shifts to weight management and peak conditioning for the octagon. He estimates the cut at eight kilos, framing it as a necessary step to ensure speed and power in the cage.
Volkanovski, widely regarded as one of the sport’s all-time greats, has not remained silent in the face of ongoing verbal pressure from Topuria. The Australian champion recently warned that he will not make the path easy. His words cut to the chase as he aims to expose the gap in levels and to turn Topuria’s bravado into a learning moment. He promises a performance that will prompt a rethink of their exchanges, suggesting that results will ultimately speak for themselves.
Defeat against Majachev
In the wake of a setback last October, Volkanovski has emphasized a full rebound. The loss to Islam Makhachev, delivered with a striking rapidity, is framed by the fighter as a chapter that belongs to the past. He concedes a vulnerable period but insists that his championship pedigree remains intact. The veteran fighter asserts that his best days are not behind him and that he will remind fans of his sustained dominance in the division.
The evolving rivalry between the two competitors continues to intensify, with both sides delivering bold statements and high-energy media appearances. The buildup to UFC 298 reflects a broader narrative about resilience, strategic evolution, and the drive to prove oneself on the sport’s biggest stage. At stake is not only momentum but the continuation of two storied careers that have captivated fans across North America, including Canada and the United States. The exchanges, the training camps, and the public confidence all point to a clash that could redefine this featherweight era. The story remains one of preparation, pressure, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in a sport where every moment can redefine a legacy.