Since defeating Charles Oliveira at the UFC 280 event, the world around Islam Makhachev has changed. The boxer himself admitted he felt he from a hunter, now becoming a prey that was targeted by other opponents. Alexander Volkanovski is one of such boxers.
“There is a belt that is different. Now everyone knows my name. They used to escape me before, but now they all rushed in,” Makhachev said. He added: “With boxers like Volkanovski, this is a good match for him. Volkanovski has nothing to lose, just gained money, and can win more championships.”
“Even when Volkanovski lost to me, he still has UFC Featherweight. Regardless of winning or losing in the next match, Volkanovski can still return to his previous weight class and play as the champion. He doesn't have many things to lose in this match,” Makhachev concluded.
While Makhachev has the advantage of playing in the weight class, Volkanovski is played at home. All tickets sold within the framework of the UFC 284 event were bought out early, showing the heat of this unique match. This is also the reason why UFC does not seem to have to promote too much for the event.
On Makhachev's side, he asserted that he would prove himself a good set of striking skills in the confrontation with Volkanovski. The advantage of height and arms will become a great advantage to help Makhachev close to the opponent, and he aims to win not in this match.