Alexander Volkanovski to be Backup for UFC 280 Lightweight Title Fight
UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski has announced that he will be a back up fighter for the lightweight title fight at UFC 280 PPV.
Volkanovski is currently no. #1 Pound for Pound fighter in UFC rankings. He announced on his Youtube channel that he will be there at UFC 280 to make weight, and will be ready to step up in case any of the fighters does not make it.
“We are locked in as a backup fighter. I have been calling for it. I said I wanted it. Just had to make sure the hand is all good. So, we are all good. We got clearance for the fight. UFC is onboard. Everyone is onboard. I will be at UFC 280 to make weight and let’s see what happens. If someone doesn’t make it, I am there to save the day. If not, atleast I am locked in as the next guy to fight for that lightweight title.”
Alexander Volkanovski on joining UFC 280 as a backup
Alexander Volkanovski was last seen at UFC 276 where he defeated Max Halloway via unanimous decision. It was 22nd straight win in MMA for “The Great”(12th consecutive wins in UFC) apart from being his fourth successful defense of 145 lbs title.
After UFC 276, Volkanovski called out that he wants to challenge for the Lightweight title now. However, a broken thumb forced him into surgery. Volkanovski confirmed in his video that he is now cleared for action.
Former UFC Lightweight Champion Charles Oliveira will fight Islam Makhachev in the main event of UFC 280 PPV with the vacant Lightweight title. Oliviera was stripped off the title after he failed to make weight at UFC 274 event. However, he became the #1 contender for the title by defeating Justin Gaethje at the event. Makhachev enters the fight with 10 consecutive wins in UFC.
No. #6 ranked Beniel Dariush earlier announced that he is serving as the backup for the title fight. Dariush is also on a 7-fight winning streak and is fighting #9 ranked Mateusz Gamrot on UFC 280 main card already. However, it seems that Volkanovski will now be the first choice for any replacement in the main event.
Keep tuned in for more news and updates from UFC 280 PPV which takes place on October 22, 2022.
