January 9, 2024 6:00 pm ET
Alexander Volkanovski has sought help from Brad Riddell in preparation for Ilia Topuria.
Featherweight champion Volkanovski (26-3 MMA, 13-2 UFC) defends his title against Topuria (14-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) in the UFC 298 headliner Feb. 17 at Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.
Volkanovski has been sparring with City Kickboxing teammate Riddell, who he thinks is a perfect look for Topuria’s style.
“I’ve got Brad Riddell over, who’s obviously a great training partner just in general, but even stylistically,” Volkanovski said on his YouTube channel. “He’s obviously a very good boxer himself. I think he can sort of simulate Ilia. To be quite honest, I think he can give me a lot more problems than what Ilia will – and that’s not knocking Ilia, that’s just showing how good Brad is.
“Obviously Brad’s had hundreds of kickboxing matches and had a heap of boxing matches, and he’s a strong, stocky, powerful dude as well so it’s good to have him in.”
Topuria chimed in on Volkanovski’s training camp, and is still sticking with his prediction of an early finish.
“If you think someone can imitate me, that means that your last fight has left you with lasting effects! I will knock you out in the first round. You’re old, it’s time to retire. It is time to move on and make way for the new era of Topuria.”
If you think someone can imitate me, that means that your last fight has left you with lasting effects! I will knock you out in the first round. You’re old, it’s time to retire. It is time to move on and make way for the new era of Topuria.
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) January 6, 2024
Undefeated Topuria has shown championship promise in his performances so far, but Volkanovski vows to put an end to his hype.
“I see he’s confident,” Volkanovski said. “He’s a cocky, confident young dude. Let’s see if he can really bring it because I know I’m going to. I can’t wait to show him levels.
“I’ve seen a lot in my game. I still feel like I’m in my prime. I get to show this young kid that there’s levels and I am the king of this division, and he ain’t taking nothing from me. I’m coming for that zero.”
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