UFC 298: Alexander Volkanovski’s Age Gets Highlighted as Ex Champ Verifies ‘Over 35 Curse’ to Be Real Before Ilia Topuria Fight

Alexander Volkanovski is gearing up for the upcoming title fight at UFC 298 against Ilia Topuria. The 35-year-old is determined to ‘ humble ‘ the challenger when they meet next. However, there is one cause of concern for the champion when he takes center stage on February 17th. While the Aussie is a complete fighter, Michael Bisping feels his age could be a decisive factor.

The former UFC champion recently took to his YouTube channel to discuss the fight. However, he pointed out a fact that might anger the champion’s fans. Let us delve into the details to find out what Bisping had to say.

Michael Bisping points out glaring flaw in flawless Alexander Volkanovski

Alexander Volkanovski is one of those rare fighters who has managed to sustain a lengthy career. The 35-year-old is still unbeaten in the division and a threat inside the Octagon. However, he will be up against the 27-year-old Ilia Topuria next. Many believe ‘ Volk’ is the best fighter in the featherweight division and his record does suggest the same. However, former UFC champion Michael Bisping feels the former rugby player might just find it hard enough against a younger opponent.

Michael Bisping in his recent YouTube shed some light on the ‘ Over 35 curse’. During the video, the 44-year-old shared some findings which justified his claims about the curse. He said:” The over-35 curse is real in MMA. In the last 33 title fights between 125-170 pounds that pitted a UFC fighter older than 35 years old, the over-35 crowd has only won twice. A record of 2-31 does not buoy the faith of any Volkanovski supporters, who knocked out after turning 35- to Islam Makhachev this past October.”

“Volkanovski has not shied away from the topic. In fact, he starred in a new video that poked fun at the idea he is suddenly an old-timer in the sport. “

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Bisping has not only pointed out a disadvantage for the champion but also looked impressed by the challenger. The former UFC champion pointed out the strengths of ‘El Matador’ before his UFC 298 clash. Bisping in his recent YouTube video also shed light on the fighting style of the challenger.

Michael Bisping looks impressed by Ilia Topuria

The #3 ranked featherweight fighter is a crowd favorite to win the title. The Spaniard has won his last six fights and is now ready to challenge for the belt. While ‘Volk’ is confident of winning the fight and believes his IQ and fight experience will help him come out on top, ‘The Count’ has advised the champion to be a bit more cautious against Ilia Topuria. Bisping in a recent YouTube video praised the challenger and his boxing skills. 

While analyzing his fight, Bisping said: “He’s a tremendous wrestler and mixed martial artist, but the hands are good, they’re powerful. They’re strong, and they’re dangerous. I mean, the way he knocked out Bryce Mitchell, that was sickening again, absolutely flatlined him but he kind of loads up and he swings. He could not touch a glove on Ilia Topuria.” He also pointed out the fact as to how he dominated the fight against Josh Emmett and won his first title shot.

While ‘El Matador’ seems confident of winning the belt, facing Volkanovski will be a different battle altogether. Who will win the fight at UFC 298? Let us know your picks in the comments below.

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