Chad Mendes at UFC 232 – Dec. 29, 2018
Just five months after his grueling war with Elkins, Volkanovski returned to the octagon at UFC 232 and proved beyond any doubt that he was ready for a run at the featherweight title.
Volkanovski took on former title challenger Chad Mendes and turned the tables on the American by doing to “Money” what he’d previously spent his career doing – overpowering his opponent before finishing them in decisive fashion in Inglewood, Calif.
In an exciting clash between two fighters who were well-matched physically, Volkanovski battled back from adversity in the first round to finish Mendes in the second before announcing himself as the latest new contender for the featherweight title.
Mendes struck first during the contest, as he connected with a big right hand that sent Volkanovski to the deck. But the Australian contender quickly rallied and, after getting back to his feet, stunned Mendes with a huge left hook. It proved to be the turning point in the fight as Volkanovski took Mendes’ best punch, then returned fire, with interest, and hurt his man.
Mendes looked to use his powerful wrestling to take Volkanovski off his feet, but he couldn’t hold the Aussie down and, when the pair returned to the stand-up, Volkanovski’s striking took over as he peppered Mendes with snapping jabs and powerful left hands.
Vokanovski grinned at his opponent and waved him on as he backed the American against the fence and started to tee off on the Team Alpha Male athlete. By the mid-point of the second round, Volkanovski had Mendes in trouble and saw his moment to go for the win. A thumping body shot and a powerful right hand decked Mendes, finished the former challenger and announced Volkanovski as a serious threat to the title.
“A lot of people were saying that there is not much left for Max Holloway in this division,” said Volkanovski after the fight. “I think I’m next in line. … There is one more test for Max Holloway. I just showed I’m one of the top guys. Mendes was a tough opponent, he’s explosive, I knew he would bring all his power but I also knew I was going to give it back, and that’s what I did.”
Watch Alexander Volkanovski vs. Chad Mendes on UFC Fight Pass
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