Alexander Volkanovski doubts Ilia Topuria‘s influence and suggests that Max Holloway was not forced into accepting their fight, amidst ongoing verbal exchanges between Topuria and Holloway.
Alexander Volkanovski doubts Ilia Topuria has as much pull as he claims to have.
The reigning featherweight champion recently tweeted that his first title defense is booked. He suggested that the UFC matchmakers “forced” Max Holloway to accept a fight date.
“It seems that the UFC has forced him to say yes. El Matador is back. Congratulations to all @ufc fans,” tweeted Topuria on July 24, 2024.
This comment continues a recent war of words between Topuria and Holloway. Topuria claimed their fight had been delayed due to issues on Holloway’s side.
Holloway responded, saying he’s open to fighting Topuria at UFC 306 in Las Vegas on Sept. 14.
Volkanovski weighed in on the drama during an interview with MMA Fighting’s José Youngs.
“Let’s be real, you’re not forcing Max to fight,” Volkanovski said. “I think it’s common knowledge that Max wants to fight him and I think he wanted to fight him sooner rather than later.”
“There’s holdups,” he continued. “I’m pretty sure there’s holdups, and I don’t think it’s on Max—I’m not trying to pick sides, I’m just stating facts.”
“I’ve got nothing against Ilia, but you’re not forcing Max in this one. Let’s be real.”
Topuria’s next fight, whether it’s against Holloway or someone else, is still yet to be officially announced.
Volkanovski dropped his featherweight title to Topuria after being knocked out in the second round of their UFC 298 main event contest.
It was Volkanovski’s first loss ever at 145 pounds. The win elevated Topuria’s stardom significantly.
However, he hasn’t competed since February, and Volkanovski wonders if his behavior in interviews and social media is affecting his image negatively.
“The way [Topuria] approaches some things, I find it quite funny,” Volkanovski said. “Not funny like ‘I’m going to play the bad guy’ and do that and play the game.”
“With luck playing that role and then getting a knockout of me—it worked out perfect for him,” he added. “That was great.”
“I feel like he got everyone on board; now you just play your cards right.”
“I just don’t feel like he’s playing his cards right right now,” Volkanovski continued. “He’s starting to lose a bit of the fans that might have jumped on.”
“Or maybe this is a big master plan of his—to stir it up even more? Maybe try to get in Max’s head? I don’t know what it is.”
“But you didn’t force Max; we sort of know this.”
Volkanovski hasn’t fought since losing to Topuria either. His plan is reportedly waiting for a chance to regain the featherweight belt—one he successfully defended five times consecutively.
He also holds a perfect 3-0 record in championship fights against Holloway.
Should Topuria vs. Holloway be officially booked? It sounds like Volkanovski still plans to wait for his turn.
“I wanted them to fight earlier so I can fight sooner,” Volkanovski said.