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With all due respect to Nassourdine Imavov, Roman Dolidze, Jack Hermansson, and Joe Pyfer, the UFC needs some star power back in its main event.
Alexander Volkanovski is the answer to that problem, returning in a week to headline UFC 298 against Ilia Topuria.
The over-35 curse is real in MMA. In the last 33 title fights between 125-170 pounds that pitted a UFC fighter older than 35 years old, the over-35 crowd has only won twice. A record of 2-31 does not buoy the faith of any Volkanovski supporters, who was knocked out–after turning 35–to Islam Makhachev this past October.
Volkanovski has not shied away from the topic. In fact, he starred in a new video that poked fun at the idea he is suddenly an old-timer in the sport.
The loss to Makhachev took place after accepting the bout under short-notice, so it is difficult to read too much into that performance. But Topuria, who is only 27, has obliterated opponents in his 14 fights.
This will be a true test to see if Volkanovski is still elite. And if he can break the curse.
The Pick ‘Em Section
UFC Fight Night middleweight bout: Jack Hermansson vs. Joe Pyfer
Pick: Joe Pyfer
UFC Fight Night featherweight bout: Dan Ige vs. Andre Fili
Pick: Dan Ige
UFC Fight Night middleweight bout: Ihor Potieria vs. Robert Bryczek
Pick: Robert Bryczek
Gregory Rodrigues vs. Brad Tavares
Pick: Gregory Rodrigues
UFC Fight Night lightweight bout: Darrius Flowers vs. Michael Johnson
Pick: Darrius Flowers
2024 record: 4-5
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