Islam Makhachev Fires Back at Alexander Volkanovski With a ‘15 Helpless Seconds’ Warning

UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev will go head-to-head against UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski in the latter’s home country Australia at UFC 284. The Aussie fighter is undoubtedly a tough competition for Makhachev. But Volkanovski and his coach have come to an agreement with the fact that Makhachev does have an advantage.

The featherweight champion appeared on the Believe You Me podcast with former UFC star Michael Bisping, discussing his upcoming fight with the Dagestani native. He acknowledged Makhachev’s ability to perform takedowns and said, “There’s a good chance he might get the takedown, he might get a nice trip, whatever it is. I won’t be surprised if he doesn’t, I’m working on everything right now.”

‘The Great’ Volkanovski also mentioned that he is going strong in the training camp by putting in a lot of hours and guarantees that he will ‘not panic.’ He said, “I guarantee you this; I’m gonna be composed, I’m gonna be calm and I’m gonna be fighting my a*s off to get back to my feet and I will not panic.”

Islam Makhachev needs only 15 seconds

The champion reacted to Volkanovski’s comments on Twitter. He doesn’t seem to care that Volkanovski claimed to be unafraid of Makhachev’s ability inside the octagon. He tweeted, “After first 15 helpless seconds on the ground, I guarantee you will panic.” The Russian is confident that he’ll win once again after an amazing win at UFC 280.

The fight between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski will certainly entertain the fans as it looks good on paper. Volkanovski is experienced and quick while Makhachev is riding high on momentum after capturing the lightweight championship. The latter has only had one loss in his career so far and has shown dominant performances in all of his UFC fights.

READ MORE: Khabib Nurmagomedov Faces Severe Backlash for Showing “Weak Mindset” With His Latest Islam Makhachev Comments

Alexander Volkanovski is perhaps one of the most complete fighters currently with a background in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. The upcoming bout will push him to unleash his best ground game. It will be a champion vs champion match and Islam Makhachev’s first title defense after capturing the vacant title. Volkanovski will sure have a home crowd support.

What are your thoughts on this lightweight title bout? Will Makhachev be able to register another dominant victory? Drop your comments below.

WATCH THIS STORY: Conor McGregor Responds to Islam Makhachev’s Win & Petr Yan Loss at UFC 280