Former UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski recently assessed his potential matchup against Alex Pereira during a fan Q&A session.
Volkanovski and Pereira share several commonalities, notably their status as two of the greatest fighters in UFC history. However, in terms of physical attributes, they differ greatly, exemplified by a significant 60-pound weight gap between them.
Despite the weight disparity, Volkanovski didn’t hesitate to discuss his hypothetical game plan for facing Pereira in the Octagon.
Pereira has quickly risen to fame, becoming the fastest fighter in UFC history to capture titles across multiple weight classes. Following his victory over Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307, Pereira is now eyeing a potential clash with elite light heavyweight contender Magomed Ankalaev.
On the other hand, Volkanovski has consistently demonstrated his ability to compete in any circumstance throughout his UFC career. His short-notice attempt to secure a second championship at UFC 294 illustrated that he is always ready for a challenge.
Although Volkanovski doesn’t anticipate moving to the 205-pound division, he framed his approach in response to a fan’s speculative question about a clash with Pereira.
In a recent Q&A session shared on his YouTube channel, Volkanovski was directly questioned about a potential fight with Pereira. He humorously acknowledged the lure of financial gain, stating, “Money talks [LAUGHS]…I’m not going to stand up with that bloke, let’s be real, I’m gonna try to hang on to the legs and try to find that takedown… Because if you don’t, you’re going to be in for some hurtin’ that’s for sure.” He emphasized that there isn’t anyone he wouldn’t consider fighting.
Currently, Volkanovski is looking to rebound after a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. A rematch with Topuria could be on the cards for 2025, especially if the reigning champion opts to shift to lightweight.
Pereira, who captured the UFC light heavyweight title last year, defended his belt three times in 2024, positioning himself strongly as a candidate for ‘Fighter of the Year’. While there is no definitive timeline for his next fight, he is likely to defend his title in early 2025.
Volkanovski and his team are well-acquainted with Pereira’s formidable skill set, notably due to their connection to City Kickboxing. One of their top fighters, Israel Adesanya, has faced Pereira in four different bouts, including two in Glory Kickboxing.
Adesanya’s initial UFC middleweight title reign ended when Pereira staged a remarkable comeback to finish him at UFC 281, although Adesanya later avenged that loss in their UFC 287 rematch, earning a ‘Knockout of the Year’ nomination.
Even if a fight between Volkanovski and Pereira is unlikely to materialize, Volkanovski’s analysis reveals his readiness to take on any challenge, regardless of the obstacles involved.
For more insights, check out the attached videos and related posts.
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