A geriatric Alexander Volkanovski keeping up with times is the best Volkanovski yet! That’s saying something, given he’s a former UFC top pound-for-pound and featherweight kingpin on a neat reign. With some pep in the step, the groovy “Old Man Volk” often reminds people why he was called ‘The Great.’ Now, the fan-fave fighter is back at it again before UFC 308.
Alexander Volkanovski is friends with Masterchef Australia’s Melissa Leong and Rockpool Bar and Grill’s (Sydney) head chef Correy Costelloe. Volk is even giving breakers a run for their money. But nothing beats his alter ego with the signature flat cap, sweater, collared shirt, and dress pants. “Old Man Volk” now has an independent pasta business, with an old rival still breathing down his neck.
In the sketch, Volk makes some cheeky pointers to his fighting career. At one point, Volk tells a customer paying by card that he “never taps” and assures another that he plans to keep fighting. Though in reality, it’s about his ongoing beef with Beverly, last seen terrorizing Volkanovski in the original ‘Old Man’ clip. But the short segue could also hold for the short-notice legend hinting at readiness.
UFC 308 is edging around, taking shape later this month at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Ilia Topuria faces Max Holloway in the pay-per-view top bill. The undefeated Topuria won the belt from Volk last February at UFC 298. He had propped up as “Old Man Volk” during this pre-fight banter phase to show he still has mileage. While he isn’t the official backup, this could signal he’s ready for UFC 308.
What’s next for “Old Man Volk”?
Volkanovski has been getting a lot of fanfare out of his comedic character. He even appeared as Old Man Volk at a press conference in the run-up to his fight with Ilia Topuria. The bout did not go so well, ending his 5-0 reign. But it won hearts nonetheless. As for Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, ‘The Great’ has very little scope to enter the title foray for UFC 308.
Diego Lopes has announced he’ll cash in on his promised title shot and serve as official backup for the upcoming PPV. In less than 18 months of his UFC competition tenure, Lopes (26-6 MMA, 5-1 UFC) has been quite the reckoning. The budding 145lber is fresh off a clear dominance on Brian Ortega at this year’s Noche.
The Aussie fighter might not be able to clinch a straight title shot. However, Alexander Volkanovski is still the top dog per the UFC divisional athlete rankings and a clear case for gold. Volk has also said he’ll end double-dip dreams at lightweight for a while and stay at 145 to regain what was his. Volkanovski even pushed the cog a step further, willing to fight Lopes – only if it’s for the interim title.
Topuria has promised Lopes his shot and is eyeing 155 should he win. Holloway is 0-3 against Volk and sees very little scope in opening that particular jar. As “Old Man Volk” peers on to his competition, an interim clash seems the only way now for Volk to reinsert into the fold. Hopefully, this time, for Volkanovski’s sake, the sketch will fare better.
