Volkanovski: If anyone can beat Makhachev 'off the couch,' it's me
UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski likes his chances to shock the world.
Earlier this week, Volkanovski agreed to step up on 11 days' notice and challenge Islam Makhachev in a rematch for the lightweight title at UFC 294 on Oct. 21 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Makhachev was scheduled to face Charles Oliveira, but the Brazilian pulled out of the matchup due to an injury.
Volkanovski, who's three months removed from arm surgery, said in a video on his YouTube channel he believes he has the best shot out of anyone to beat Makhachev on short notice.
"Would I prefer a better camp? Of course," Volkanovski said. "Everyone would. You know what I'm like with my preparation. I like to make sure. But I'm the man for the job. If anyone can do it, if anyone can do this on 12 days' notice off the couch, as they would say, it's me."
Volkanovski pushed Makhachev to the limit in their first superfight at UFC 284 in February, scoring a knockdown in the fifth round but ultimately losing by unanimous decision. Volkanovski and Makhachev are considered two of the best fighters on the planet, ranked No. 2 and No. 3 on the UFC's men's pound-for-pound list, respectively.
Volkanovski said he's always in "half-decent shape" because he trains year-round. And it appears not having gone through a full camp might even work to the Australian's advantage.
"Have I been on holidays? Yeah. Have I had a couple drinks here and there? Yeah, I have. But I guess that makes me feel a little fresh," Volkanovski said. "That's why I'm really excited. It's a bit different. I don't feel worn out."
Volkanovski knows people will have doubts about whether he can beat Makhachev with such little time to prepare, but he's looking forward to finding out.
"This is obviously a pretty crazy thing to do," Volkanovski said. "There's not many fighters out there that probably would do this, especially in my position. But I always say that I will do these things. ... I am that guy that will do anytime, anywhere, any weight, whatever it is. I guess this is an opportunity to prove that once again."
And if he loses to Makhachev again?
"No pressure on me, baby," Volkanovski said. "No pressure at all. All the pressure is on him. I'm coming off the couch."