“Like a Young Pacquiao”: Teddy Atlas Reacts to Ilia Topuria’s Knockout Win Over Volkanovski

In a stunning UFC 298 showdown, Ilia Topuria floored Alexander Volkanovski and became the new UFC featherweight Champion. Alex termed him as a Conor McGregor wannabe, but Teddy Atlas sees a shadow of Manny Pacquiao in Topuria. The ex trainer of Mike Tyson, offers a rare lens.

He applauds technique over brute force. Imagine, a fighter in the octagon, boxing like a young Pacquiao. Atlas dissected the win, not with the usual MMA jargon, but through a boxer’s eyes. Why would a legendary trainer make such a comparison? And what does it reveal about Topuria’s victory?

Is age catching up to Alexander Volkanovski?

Immediately following the fight, Teddy Atlas took to Twitter to express his admiration for Topuria’s approach, likening it to the finesse of professional boxing. “Done like a pro boxer, Topuria walked Volk into that rt. hand, setting him up with throw away shots to position him for the finishing blow! #UFC298,” he praised. This strategic maneuvering showcased Topuria’s ability to control the fight’s pace and direction.

Furthermore, Atlas’s second tweet underscored the explosive power behind Topuria’s victory. “Beautifully done. Topuria exploded forward with speed and power, like a young Pacquiao. Can beat some Pro Boxers. #UFC298,” he exclaimed. Indeed, Topuria’s performance was a masterclass in combining speed with strategic striking.

Volkanovski, 26-4, has had 5 title defenses with 6 title wins. Topuria, 15-0, threw a left-right combination in the second round and put the 35 year old Volkanovski to the ground. The combination was so fast that Teddy couldn’t hold himself from tweeting once again and breaking it down.

Teddy’s insight on the KO

Teddy Atlas’ third tweet shed light on the intricate details that led to Topuria’s victory, emphasizing not just the physical prowess but the intellectual strategy behind the knockout. “Yes speed & power, but also the sweet science. Did u see that subtle little step to the side at end to be in perfect spot for KO shot! Bravo. #UFC298,” Atlas remarked.

After securing his win, Topuria’remarked in the post-match interview, “They told me I couldn’t do it… Just trust yourself, and anything is possible. Just look at me now,” Topuria beamed, embodying the spirit of a champion who defied expectations. His victory wasn’t just a testament to his physical capabilities but to his confidence in and outside of the ring. He was very confident or cocky as some people would say during the promotion of this fight, but he backed all of it up.

Also Read: Who Will Alexander Volkanovski Face at Lightweight? Is Islam Makhachev Next After UFC 298 Ilia Topuria Fight?

When Topuria said he would knock out Alex in the second round, many people doubted him, but he indeed is a man of his word. What do you think? Is the Georgian really the next Conor McGregor? What holds next for him and for the veteran Volkanovski? Let us know your thoughts.

Watch this story: Conor McGregor Receives His Main Event as Ilia Topuria Demands UFC Spain After Michael Chandler Fight