Alexander Volkanovski isn’t the fighter he once was, according to an MMA icon.
At UFC 314, inside the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida, USA, ‘The Great’ recaptured his featherweight championship with a sparkling display against Diego Lopes.
In the moments after, the two-time 145-pound King was in high spirits. Volkanovski shared a heartwarming moment with Israel Adesanya, and was quick to discuss future fights.
However, one former world title challenger isn’t overly keen on seeing him return to the octagon.
WOW: Alexander Volkanovski reveals frightening moment he was blinded during UFC 314 win
Chael Sonnen explains why he’s worried for Alexander Volkanovski
Chael Sonnen was left deeply concerned after watching Alexander Volkanovski reclaim his throne at the weekend.
While the Australian won in dominant fashion, ‘The American Gangster’ thinks the warrior looks a shadow of the man he once was.
In a video uploaded to his YouTube channel, Sonnen said: “I saw moments from Volk, where Volk looked old. I saw moments from Volk, where he was getting hit and hurt from shots that, at one point, never would have touched him.
“I wanna make sure I’m giving a fair account to Volk, who’s the greatest to have ever done it. But did he take on the rightful opponent? We know the number one guy (Ilia Topuria) wasn’t there; he left, so who was the right guy?
“I don’t get through that fight, clamoring to see Volk fight anybody. You hear that and think, ‘Chael, you’re being very rude’. So, let me turn the gun back on you, leave me a comment, who are you dying to see him fight?
“That’s where I do happen to like the idea of matching him up with Yair Rodriguez.”
Alexander Volkanovski receives call out from 19-0 fighter
While Sonnen is somewhat intrigued by the idea of Volkanovski running it back with Rodriguez, the Mexican isn’t the only potential next challenger.
In the aftermath of UFC 314, there was another competitor eying up a potential shot at the all-time great.
Spotting his opportunity to throw his name in the mix, the MMA star quickly took to social media.
Generating hype for a future showdown, the undefeated fighter called out Volkanovski.
