Charles of the Bronx will face Ilia Topuria No. UFC 317. (Photo: Montage/SUPER FIGHTS)
The only certainty of Alexander Volkanovsky about the main fight of the UFC 317 is that it will be an extremely interesting confrontation. This is because the Australian, who knows well the strengths of Ilia Topuria, knows that a lot will be at stake when the Spaniard shares the octagon with Charles of the Bronx. The Brazilian has the chance to make history and regain the lightweight belt (up to 70,2 kg), while 'El matador' can win his second title after giving up the featherweight throne (up to 65,7 kg).
In an interview with the 'Overdogs Podcast', Volkanovski praised the qualities of Ilia Topuria, especially his knockout power. According to the Australian, the Spaniard is dangerous in any situation and has the ability to find the right blow to end the fight. For him, this finishing instinct makes 'El Matador' a real threat, even in the lightweight division.
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“Ilia has the ability to knock anyone out. You know he has solid hands, he’s very dangerous and he has very good focus. So even when things aren’t going well for him, he still has that light at the end of the tunnel to find the right shot. And that’s dangerous, especially when you have a guy coming at you with jabs… He can definitely find that shot and take anyone out, even in the lightweight division,” Volkanovski said.
On the other hand, Volkanovski considered that the duel against Charles of the Bronx It could be an unprecedented test for Topuria, as he believes the Brazilian will not sit back and will adopt an attacking stance, which could put the Spaniard in an uncomfortable position.
“But I think Charles won’t be on the defensive, and that could be something new for Ilia. I don’t think he’s ever had to fight someone who also goes for it. So, let’s see how Ilia does when he’s on the defensive. I’ve seen him a few times, and he doesn’t have the same resources, those strong punches, head movement… That changes things a little bit. I think Charles will keep his guard up, it’ll be interesting,” he concluded. Alexander Volkanovsky.
After winning the featherweight belt (up to 65,7 kg) at defeat Alexander Volkanovsky and defend it against Max Holloway, Ilia Topuria gave up the title to seek his second belt, now in the lightweight division (up to 70,2 kg). The Spaniard faces Charles of the Bronx in the main fight of UFC 317, scheduled for June 28, during International Struggle Week.
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