Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria – As UFC 298 gears up to showcase one of the most anticipated featherweight title bouts between Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski and Ilia “El Matador” Topuria, the excitement is palpable. With Volkanovski’s record standing at an impressive 26-3-0 and Topuria maintaining an undefeated streak of 14-0-0, this clash is set to be a highlight for fans and bettors alike. Scheduled for Saturday, February 17, 2024, at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, this event is drawing significant attention from Canadian sports betting sites, given the closely contested betting odds that frame Volkanovski as a slight favorite.
Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria
When: Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET
Where: Honda Center, Anaheim, California, USA
TV: ESPN+
Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria Betting Odds
| Moneyline | |
| Volkanovski | -126 |
| Topuria | +106 |
Alexander Volkanovski Analysis
The stats illustrate that Alexander Volkanovski is an extremely well-rounded fighter boasting an outstanding 26-3 professional record. On the feet, he unleashes an prolific 6.19 significant strikes landed per minute with sharp 57% accuracy, showcasing crisp boxing and lethal leg kicks. That volume pairs nicely with superb defensive responsibility as Volkanovski absorbs just 3.42 strikes per minute thanks to his strong 58% striking defense. The champion minimizes damage taken while racking up points through his high offensive output.
While only converting on 37% of his takedown attempts, Volkanovski stops a stout 70% of shots against him and spends little time fighting off his back. That wrestling defense allows “The Great” to keep fights in his wheelhouse. With nearly 20 minutes of average fight time, Volkanovski has proven five-round cardio for 25 grueling minutes. Recent domination of world-class featherweights like Brian Ortega and “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung Jung exemplify the champion’s outstanding technical skills, fight IQ and athletic gifts that have steered him to a spectacular 22-fight unbeaten streak at 145 pounds.
Ilia Topuria Analysis
Ilia Topuria enters his first UFC title opportunity sporting an unblemished 14-0 professional record with all of his wins coming via exciting finishes. While not displaying the sheer volume or pinpoint precision of the champion, Topuria still manages to land a robust 4.44 significant strikes per minute. Holding opponents to just 3.05 landed strikes per round, his 67% defensive rate helps minimize damage taken. Though only 46% accurate on the feet, Topuria’s true offensive weapon is his vaunted grappling arsenal. He executes takedowns at a strong 56% clip, while also showcasing sensational takedown defense by stopping 92% of offensive shots against him.
Once on the canvas, Topuria’s grappling acumen remains dangerous, evidenced by his 1.5 submission attempts per round. With vicious ground and pound striking also in his back pocket, five straight first round UFC finishes spotlight Topuria’s combination of raw power and smothering pressure. Still undefeated with a finishing rate of 100%, those dual-threat attributes could present real issues to Volkanovski’s reign over the talent-rich featherweight division.
Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria Stats
| Volkanovski | Topuria | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 26-3-0 | 14-0-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 16:18 | 10:17 |
| Height | 5′ 6″ | 5′ 7″ |
| Weight | 145 lbs. | 145 lbs. |
| Reach | 71″ | 69″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 6.19 | 4.44 |
| Striking Accuracy | 57% | 46% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 3.42 | 3.05 |
| Defense | 58% | 67% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 1.84 | 2.19 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 37% | 56% |
| Takedown Defense | 70% | 92% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.2 | 1.5 |
Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria Betting Picks
Volkanovski has proven himself championship caliber while Topuria still needs to demonstrate he can handle fighting the elite. Considering Volkanovski’s marked advantages on the feet including accuracy, volume, movement and defensive responsibility, Topuria faces big challenges winning rounds if the fight stays standing. The pick here is to expect Volkanovski to stuff takedowns in the first couple rounds, clearly out-strike Topuria for an early lead before mixing in his own offensive grappling late to lock up another successful title defense.
We’re backing the incumbent champion Alexander Volkanovski to win a clear decision tonight over Ilia Topuria. Volkanovski has yet to show any real weaknesses and his well-rounded style should be able to limit Topuria’s offensive openings. Play Volkanovski at a very reasonable -126 price to have his hand raised as we expect him to leave UFC 298 still the undisputed featherweight king.
Free Pick: Alexander Volkanovski -126
Bettors looking for the best UFC 298 winning picks would be wise to consider backing durable featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at moderate minus money over young upstart Ilia Topuria. Volkanovski’s marked technical and cardio edges should carry him to a convincing decision victory to retain his title.
