“I Don’t Need to Be Anywhere”: Alexander Volkanovski Responds to Islam Makhachev’s ‘2–3 Years in Dagestan’ Comment

Alexander Volkanovski recently posted a video showing his temporary blonde hair transformation for his role in the upcoming live-action Street Fighter movie. 

His post garnered reactions from fans and fighters, including the welterweight champion Makhachev, who commented “2-3.” Volkanovski immediately responded. 

Alexander Volkanovski Replies to Islam Makhachev’s Comment

Alexander Volkanovski is playing Joe, a character who has bleached blonde hair, a clean-shaven face, and a muscular build, in the movie set to release on 16 October. 

During the promotion of the movie, Volkanovski was asked about Makhachev’s comment, to which he replied, “2-3, that was good fun. I love it. I'm glad that they interacted with it, and yeah, I won't have long blonde hair when I fight, but I reckon I'll, I reckon I'll, nah, I'll slow you, aerodynamic they'll actually slow you down, but it don't matter. I don't need to be anywhere but here in Australia and kick as*.”

However, there was no serious tension between the two. Islam Makhachev made the line “2-3 years in Dagestan” famous, and it has been widely used in the MMA community ever since. The pair have faced each other twice, with Makhachev winning both bouts.

Now, the Dagestani welterweight champion is preparing for his second title defense, while Volkanovski is also set to enter his second.

Volkanovski’s Next Fight

Alexander Volkanovski is set to enter his ninth UFC title fight against Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 on October 24. If he wins, ‘The Great’ will become the first featherweight in UFC history to secure nine victories in title fights.

However, the 38-year-old admitted that he feels nervous heading into this fight because he believes Evloev could push him to his breaking point. The undefeated Russian (20-0) is a pressure fighter known for his exceptional cardio.

Evloev relies heavily on grappling to dominate his opponents. Volkanovski is aware of this threat and admits that controlling the rounds could be more challenging than in his previous fights.

Volkanovski has also revealed that he might consider retiring if he suffers serious injuries or a devastating knockout in this fight. However, his decision remains to be seen until he steps into the Octagon.