Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria had a friendly backstage exchange ahead of their UFC 298 featherweight championship match, with Volkanovski jokingly allowing Topuria to pose with the belt.
Well, Alexander Volkanovski sure caught Ilia Topuria in the act. Jumping the gun, was he?
So, here’s the deal. This Saturday, it’s Volkanovski vs. Topuria. The main event of UFC 298, folks. And guess what’s at stake? Volkanovski’s featherweight championship.
Earlier this week, there was a bit of a teaser. A backstage run-in, tense yet friendly. A little taste of the action to come.
UFC posted a clip on social media. Topuria, the cheeky lad, was trying on the belt. Just as Volkanovski walks by. And what does he do? He chirps at his trash-talking challenger.
A few words were exchanged between the featherweights. All in good fun, mind you. Just a warm-up for the big fight on Saturday.
“May as well make the most of it, eh?” Volkanovski quipped. “Fight week. Yeah, yeah, you may as well wear it now. Wear it now.”
Topuria, not one to back down, retorted, “I’m going to take a couple pictures.” As he approached Volkanovski.
“Yeah, take pictures now because you won’t have it after,” Volkanovski shot back.
A few more words were exchanged. Then Volkanovski went on his way. Topuria? Back to his photo session.
Volkanovski, at 35, is on a mission. He’s aiming to be the oldest UFC champion under 170 pounds to defend his title. His opponent? The undefeated Topuria, 27. The showdown? This Saturday at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.