With UFC 284 fast approaching, it appears as if promotional activities are also going to be taken a notch up, especially for the main event. While Australia’s own Alexander Volkanovski is set to challenge for another title, his opponent Islam Makhachev doesn’t seem too worried about the Featherweight champ’s credentials. The 31-year-old Dagestani, in an interview with Fox Sports Australia, even claimed he’s not bothered about the crowd. Surprising, considering that Australian crowds are famous for their support and a bit of their hostility as well. In a conversation with Niko Pajarillo, Makhachev send out quite a chilling message to Volkanovski claiming that he was aiming for a finish as early as the third round. Read on to find out what Makhachev said about the Australian crowd and what he thinks of Volk‘s skills as a fighter.

Islam Makhachev is not worried about the hostile Australian crowd

UFC 284 will mark the first event to be held in Australia after 2019. The last time the promotion set up a stage here was at UFC 243; when Robert Whittaker fought Israel Adesanya. However, now, it’s an Australian stepping up for a chance to win a double gold. The crowd is expected to be somewhat wild. But all the talks of a hostile crowd don’t seem to disturb Makhachev much, at least for the time being.

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On the question of whether he’d be used to the crowd reaction on fight day, the Lightweight champion responded:  “Doesn’t matter. The people inside the arena cannot help him, you know. When the cage close…nobody can help him.” stated Makhachev. Easily one of the coldest statements made by him so far.

Makhachev’s true mettle will be tested on February 12. As he walks out to the Perth crowd, one thing he can confirm is that they will be extremely hostile. Australians love their athletes and Volkanovski is by far among the most prolific ones the nation has right now.

Makhachev plans on finishing Volkanovski in three rounds

On questions about Volkanovski‘s skills, the 31-year-old confided: “He’s a good Striker.” He went on to then point out the size difference as a problem for Volk at lightweight. “But you know this division not for him. Because 155, this is like big guys and it’s I think he makes some trouble for himself in this division.”

Makhachev also confirmed that he was approaching the fight in the same way he had done his previous fight, i.e. aiming for a finish.”I always try to push my opponents. Take them down…when they feel all power..like how I apply the pressure. And make them tired there and finish, you know. I’m always looking for the finish. That’s why next fight it’s gonna be same.”

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Since giving a prediction has almost turned into a pre-fight ritual for fighters, Makhachev gave his own forecast as well. “I’m gonna try to finish him inside the three rounds.” Stated the Lightweight champion. Quite a statement, especially when one takes a look at Volkanovski‘s record, who has impressively not lost a fight for close to a decade. 

Does Makhachev’s confidence translate to a win inside the cage? Stay tuned and find out on 12th February.