“Do people think my time is done? I hope they do. I can’t wait to prove them wrong on April 12th,” Alexander Volkanovski warned his opponent Diego Lopes through his YouTube video. But let’s not forget Lopes is running on a 5 fight winning streak with back-to-back wins against fighters like Dan Ige and Brian Ortega.

On the other hand,  Alexander Volkanovski is running on a two-fight losing streak against juggernauts like Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. ‘The Best’ has unleashed his beast mode by quickly switching from a promising prospect to a genuine featherweight contender, cementing his space in UFC. Now he is looking to get another win at UFC 314 against ‘The Great.’ Ilia Topuria became the catalyst for this fight after he vacated the featherweight belt to chase his dreams at lightweight.

For Volk, this is his chance to redeem himself and snatch the belt that he once had proudly on his shoulders. But can he do it? Robert Whittaker had some answers regarding the same. While speaking to Jonny Roses for MMArcade, he gave his verdict on who would win.

‘The Reaper’ said, “I don’t know. Diego Lópes is so dangerous right now; he is riding on so much momentum, and he is, yeah, he is in a really dangerous position. And Volk, we don’t know what Volk we’re gonna see, you know he has had a lot of time off since he lost the belt. And he is aging, what is he now, 37? It’s like, I don’t know. Cause taking all that away, I got Volk all day. I think his grit, his tenacity, his skill set is just, so that’s why he was. That’s why he was so dominant in that division, that’s why  he beat Max the way he did twice, not three times.”

He spoke about both their strengths, but it seemed like the Aussie was leaning towards Volk. Whittaker put all the variables in place with Lopes having an amazing momentum right now and Volk losing his last fight. The timeline of all the events made his pick pretty blurry. But yes, Whittaker was supporting his fellow Aussie fighter in UFC even though he knew how dangerous Lopes was. Nevertheless, the trash talk has begun with ‘The Great’ launching attacks towards the Brazilian.

Alexander Volkanovski gives a reminder to Lopes

While speaking on his YouTube channel Volk said, “Lopes is a dangerous dude. It’s a bit of a different matchup compared to Ilia. But I’m looking forward to this one. Do people think my time is done? I hope they do.” He further added, “He’s a great dude; I respect him. But sorry, mate, that ain’t happening. I’m still here.” But he got a jibe back from Lopes who posted his reply on X.

Lopes posted on X and said, “I have worked like no one else in recent years. I have accepted challenges and dares that the UFC has put in front of me, I have said yes in every situation, even when it was not favorable for me. In less than 2 years within the UFC, I will have my opportunity for the title. I will not fail. Dream, believe, and make it happen. #AndNew”

Both fighters are ready to take the fight head-on without any inhibitions, and this clash is going to be an entertaining fight between momentum and experience. All eyes will be on Volk since he needs redemption. Do you think he can win? Tell us in the comments below.