Alexander Volkanovski planning new strategy for Islam Makhachev
UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski believes he's devised a strategy for Islam Makhachev at UFC 284 that will see him deviate from his usual gameplan on the feet.
Volkanovski is looking to follow in the footsteps of Conor McGregor by capturing the lightweight title and becoming a double champion. The Australian has dominated the featherweight division, with three wins over Max Holloway deemed enough for him to test the waters in the division above.
Standing in the Australian's way is Islam Makhachev, who won the 155-pound strap when he defeated Charles Oliveira at UFC 280. The Russian fighter is a former sambo champion and is considered to have some of the best grappling in the organization.
Whilst many believe the size advantage will play massively in Makhachev's favor, Volkanovski is confident he's got the Russian figured out. During an interview with The AllStar, he said:
"I feel like I'm gonna catch him. I know I want to capitalize on the feet...Usually when I'm fighting other guys, I know their chances are more likely to be a puncher's chance... So I've got more of a safety net on the feet, can't take (too many risks)... I will take some risks... But I still have a bit of a safety net around it. With this one, I will have a safety net, but I need to capitalize on the feet... I don't want to let the rounds get taken away from me. That's why I feel like I'm going to get the finish."
Catch the full interview here:
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Michael Chandler weighs in on Alexander Volkanovski vs. Islam Makhachev
Lightweight star Michael Chandler believes that Alexander Volkanovski possesses the skills to not only go toe-to-toe with Islam Makhachev, but to even win via decision.
The superfight will take place on February 11. As well as the lightweight title, the winner is also likely to take home the No.1 pound-for-pound ranking spot. Volaknovski is vying to achieve double-champ status, while Makhachev hopes to achieve his first UFC title defense.
According to Michael Chandler, Alexander Volkanovski is a harder hitter and is faster than Makhachev. During an interview with MMA Junkie, 'Iron' noted that if 'The Great' can avoid takedowns and submission attempts from the Russian, he may win the fight:
"I’m a huge Alexander Volkanovski fan... I do think Volkanovski is going to do better than we all think he does. In the striking department, Volkanovski is better than him. I think in the speed and power department, Volkanovski is better than him... I think Volkanovski might actually squeak out a decision."
Catch Michael Chandler's comments here: