Ariel Helwani makes bold prediction ahead of UFC 284 main-event, says ‘There’s a Leon Edwards like component to all of this’
Ariel Helwani isn’t underestimating Alexander Volkanovski against Islam Makahchev.
Despite being the number one-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, Volkanovski is a 4-1 betting underdog heading into UFC 284. ‘The Great’ is moving up from featherweight to lightweight, leading some people to think he might struggle with Makhachev’s size.
During an episode of The Ringer MMA Show, Helwani had this to say about the UFC 284 main event:
“You know I don’t like to make the picks. There’s a Leon Edwards like component to all of this. I feel something in my bones. If there’s one guy I don’t feel comfortable counting out, it’s Volkanovski. He’s smart, strong, durable, barely shows weakness. We saw him in a compromised position once…”
Helwani concluded by saying:
“He doesn’t quit, his ego never gets the best of him. He never gets crazy, he never strays away from whatever game plan they have. He’s just rock solid, right? He's just so freaking durable and dependable. I feel very uncomfortable just dismissing him like so many others are.”
There is also speculation about Volkanovski potentially struggling with Makhachev’s elite grappling skills. Meanwhile, ‘The Great’ has several ways he can find success against the Russian. The P4P king will have a speed and striking advantage, which could pay dividends if he can keep the fight standing.
Watch Ariel Helwani advocate for Alexander Volkanovski below:
All the “experts” think UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev will easily dispose of Alexander Volkanovski tomorrow at #UFC284.
Our @arielhelwani says "not so fast." https://t.co/wzLDruWQwu
Ariel Helwani believes Islam Makhachev doesn’t need Khabib Nurmagomedov in his corner
Khabib Nuramgomedov announced he would be spending less time coaching to focus on his family. As a result, ‘The Eagle’ won’t be in Islam Makhachev’s corner at UFC 284. Although there were concerns about Nurmagomedov’s absence affecting Makhachev against Alexander Volkanovski, Ariel Helwani doesn’t believe so. He had this to say:
"Honestly, I don't [think this changes anything]. It helps to have Khabib, but it feels like Islam is closer to a finished product than Umar or Usman Nurmagomedov. Those guys may suffer when he's not around. If [Makhachev] loses, it won't be because Khabib wasn't there."
On February 11, Volkanovski and Makhachev will determine the number one pound-for-pound fighter on the planet. There has been some light trash talk between the two world champions, but the only thing that matters is what happens inside the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia.