Published 02/15/2023, 1:45 PM EST
The UFC star Alexander Volkanovski was mere seconds away from claiming the ‘champ champ’ title at UFC 284. While the featherweight champion failed in his endeavor, the talks of a potential rematch have gained traction since. The super-fight also found itself midst of controversies after the judges’ decision divided the fans. While the Australian fighter found a challenger in his division on the same night, a rematch against Islam Makhachev might also be on cards. However, ‘The Great’ might have to part away from his prized possession if he aims to reign supreme at 155 lbs. Notably, the UFC veteran pinpoints where the #1 pound-for-pound fighter lacked and subsequently failed to make inroads against the Dagestani champion.
In the latest segment of Beyond the Fight, Chael Sonnen discussed and touched upon the various aspects of the potential rematch involving the two. The 45-year-old, who also sided with the lightweight champion in the recent flurry of accusations against him, also shared invaluable advice for the Australian fighter.
Chael Sonnen discloses what failed Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284
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The submission grappler in the later conversation mentioned how the lack of necessity cost the 34-year-old the double world champion title.
LAS VEGAS, NV – SEPTEMBER 25: (L-R) Alexander Volkanovski in their featherweight fight during UFC 266 on September 25, 2021, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Louis Grasse/PxImages/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Thus, he said, “The only thing that cost Volk from being the world champion, the only thing is he did not have to win it.”
Further, the former ESPN associate pointed out the featherweight kingpin had no urgency in the controversy-marred fight. In addition, another opportunity waited for him that made him complacent.
Hence, he declared, “There was no urgency. There was a 45-pound opportunity waiting for him. It was in a main event. It was for a world championship because he was going to bring it.”
The former Bellator fighter later on added, “It was for the participation points because he qualified for him. He never went all in.”
Sonnen calls for ‘The Great’ to relinquish his title
Lastly, the MMA analyst summed up as he demanded the Wollongong-born to go full-throttle.
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Thus, Sonnen, “And if Volk is to go all in, he needs to show us that first. Which is him stepping away, vacating, and never returning to 145 pounds.”
Volkanovski might face the newly crowned interim champion Yair Rodriguez next, who claimed the UFC gold at UFC 284.
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What do you think of these statements by UFC veteran Chael Sonnen about UFC champion Alexander Volkanovski? Do you believe he should vacate his title? Let us know in the comments below.