UFC 298 has just wrapped up and what a night of action we’ve had! Owing to a night of some superb fights all across the board, the event was definitely an enjoyable one. Additionally, the major talking point comes from the main event of the night featuring Alexander Volkanovski vs Ilia Topuria.
For the most part, there were a lot of high expectations and nervousness surrounding this fight. Would the confident, surging contender fulfill his destiny or would the old guard prevail? Throughout fight week, Ilia had gone on and on about how he would claim what was rightfully his and start his new story. On the other hand, Volkanovski was expected to put out the fire as he had done so many times before.
HE IS KING 👑@TOPURIAILIA IS YOUR NEW FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WORLD 🇪🇸🏆 🇬🇪 #UFC298 pic.twitter.com/eKRjZsP7yI
— UFC (@ufc) February 18, 2024
As for the fight itself, the tension was palpable as both fighters made their way to the Octagon. Those who are keen viewers of the sport know the accomplishments and feats of both fighters. Whilst Volk is hailed as the featherweight GOAT by many, Topuria was an undefeated contender from Spain looking to make his name known. Although he seemed very confident throughout fight week, he was clearly feeling the pressure of the fight.
As such, both fighters started off fleet-footed, keeping the opponent at range. As for Alex, he wanted to avoid any Jose Aldo-esque fumbles and chose to stay off his opponent for the early exchanges. At the same time, ‘El Matador’ also had a very calm approach, not rushing in to force something either. It was this calm temperament that eventually led to his victory in Round 2. In what was likely the biggest moment of the night, Topuria knocked out Alexander Volkanovski out cold.
Ilia Topuria knocks out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298
For the most part, fans were secretly hopeful that ‘The Great’ would pull off one more solid title defense. However, on the night, Ilia Topuria’s determination and hunger proved too much for the Aussie veteran as he finally lost his title. The loss comes after having made 5 title defenses in the last three years. Now 35 years old and clearly entering the twilight of his career, it was expected that Volk’s time at the top was finally up.
However, Volkanovski’s calm demeanor at the press conference gave the fans some false hope. Seeing Ilia get frustrated on the mic led many to believe that Alex could toy with his opponent’s temperament inside the Octagon as well. Unfortunately, that was not the case as Topuria picked his moment, managing to corner Volk, before unloading with devastating effect.
Among the flurry of punches Ilia landed, one managed to get through and knock Volkanovski out cold. All things considered, it made for a horrific sight, one that many thought they’d never see, with Volk slumped over in an unconscious heap. On the other hand, Topuria did exactly what he said he would do and kept his word. Although many labeled him as overconfident and a Conor McGregor wannabe, Ilia proved he is undeniable.
Moreover, with his newfound fame and a documentary on its way, things have mystically fallen into place for Ilia Topuria. As such, the 27-year-old wasted no time, calling out Conor McGregor for a fight in Spain. Although Volkanovski has called for a rematch, the future is truly boundless for the new champion. With numerous rivalries, including one with bantamweight champ Sean O’Malley a possibility, the UFC has found their latest superstar.