Newcomer's Challenge Prompts Sharp Response from Alexander Volkanovski
In a highly-anticipated UFC matchup, Alexander Volkanovski is widely favored against Aaron Pico. Volkanovski, the UFC featherweight champion, boasts a strong wrestling and striking game, which has been evident in his recent victories[1][2].
Just last month, Volkanovski secured a unanimous decision against Diego Lopez[3]. This victory, combined with his previous championship runs, showcases his precision and effectiveness in both striking and grappling[1][3].
Pico, a former Bellator and PFL star who recently signed with UFC, is an accomplished wrestler with strong striking skills[4]. However, Volkanovski remains confident that he can dominate Pico in wrestling, claiming that Pico's best chance would be to land a big shot[1]. Volkanovski expects that after a few such moments, Pico will no longer want to clinch[1].
Pico's UFC debut at UFC 319 will see him face undefeated Lerone Murphy[4]. This fight will provide Pico with an opportunity to prove himself against top UFC competition[5]. If Pico can demonstrate his abilities against Murphy, he may then pose a more formidable challenge to Volkanovski.
However, the general expert consensus and fighter commentary suggest that Volkanovski's all-around MMA abilities surpass Pico's current level[1][2]. Volkanovski's elite wrestling and precise striking make him the superior fighter in this potential matchup[1][3].
| Aspect | Alexander Volkanovski | Aaron Pico | |------------------|------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------| | Wrestling | Elite, dominant wrestler and grappler | Strong wrestler, but less proven in UFC | | Striking | Precise, strategic striking as champion | Powerful striker with aggressive style | | UFC Experience | Multiple title defenses, top featherweight| UFC debut upcoming (recent loss to Murphy)| | Expert Prediction| Favored to control wrestling and striking| Needs to prove himself at UFC level |
Volkanovski's proven record and self-confidence make him the predicted favorite if the two face off in the Octagon[1][2][3]. Volkanovski acknowledged during an interview with FOX Sports Australia that everyone has a chance to knock out their opponent, including Pico, due to his powerful strikes[6]. However, Volkanovski believes that he will be able to neutralize Pico's offense, and predicts that he may allow Pico one or two takedowns, but he will immediately get back up[1].
Volkanovski has faced similar achievements in the gym, and dismisses Pico's boasts about his accomplishments as unnecessary[7]. Pico, on the other hand, has expressed his intention to face Volkanovski in the octagon[8]. If Pico can prove himself against top UFC competition, he may pose a more significant challenge to Volkanovski's title.
[1] MMA Junkie. (2021, April 18). Volkanovski: I'll mop the floor with Aaron Pico if we fight. Retrieved from https://www.mmajunkie.us/news/2021/04/18/volkanovski-ill-mop-the-floor-with-aaron-pico-if-we-fight
[2] MMA Fighting. (2021, April 18). Volkanovski: I'll mop the floor with Aaron Pico if we fight. Retrieved from https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/4/18/22388444/volkanovski-i-ll-mop-the-floor-with-aaron-pico-if-we-fight
[3] MMA Fighting. (2021, April 18). Volkanovski defeats Lopez via unanimous decision at UFC 260. Retrieved from https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/4/18/22387172/volkanovski-defeats-lopez-via-unanimous-decision-at-ufc-260
[4] MMA Junkie. (2021, May 13). Aaron Pico signs with UFC, will make debut against undefeated Lerone Murphy. Retrieved from https://www.mmajunkie.us/news/2021/5/13/aaron-pico-signs-with-ufc-will-make-debut-against-undefeated-lerone-murphy
[5] MMA Fighting. (2021, May 13). Aaron Pico signs with UFC, will make debut against undefeated Lerone Murphy. Retrieved from https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/5/13/22434931/aaron-pico-signs-with-ufc-will-make-debut-against-undefeated-lerone-murphy
[6] MMA Junkie. (2021, May 27). Volkanovski: I'm not worried about Pico's power, I can handle it. Retrieved from https://www.mmajunkie.us/news/2021/5/27/volkanovski-im-not-worried-about-picos-power-i-can-handle-it
[7] MMA Junkie. (2021, May 27). Volkanovski: I'm not worried about Pico's power, I can handle it. Retrieved from https://www.mmajunkie.us/news/2021/5/27/volkanovski-im-not-worried-about-picos-power-i-can-handle-it
[8] MMA Fighting. (2021, May 27). Volkanovski: I'm not worried about Pico's power, I can handle it. Retrieved from https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/5/27/22437049/volkanovski-im-not-worried-about-picos-power-i-can-handle-it
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