Ilia Topuria shares bold first-round prediction for UFC 298 title fight with Alexander Volkanovski

Ilia Topuria has provided an official prediction for his upcoming title showdown with Alexander Volkanovski.

At UFC 298, Ilia Topuria faces the biggest test of his career thus far. He will challenge Alexander Volkanovski for the UFC featherweight championship in what serves as his first crack at the gold. While Volkanovski is seen by many as the favorite, others are of the opinion that Topuria is the most well-rounded contender he’s ever faced.

Regardless of which way you look at it, this is a fascinating style matchup. In the eyes of Ilia Topuria, however, it really isn’t that close.

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During a recent interview, he gave a pretty blunt prediction for how he sees the bout playing out.

Topuria’s frightening prediction

“I see myself finishing him in the first round – knockout,” Topuria told UFC Español. “It’s most likely going to be a knockout unless he dives for my legs. I’m going to put his lights out.”

“I’m part of the new generation of MMA,” Topuria said. “I bring an evolved style in all areas of the sport: on the feet, in the wrestling, in the grappling. I consider myself a far more complete and effective finisher than Volkanovski.

“The experience is on his side, but the young blood is on my side. This is my moment. God’s timing is perfect, and He’s prepared me for this moment. There won’t be any failure.”

Quotes via MMA Junkie

One way or the other, this contest promises to be explosive later this month.

What do you believe is going to happen when Ilia Topuria challenges Alexander Volkanovski for the belt at UFC 298? Will this be one of the best fights of the year so far? Let us know, BJPENN Nation!