Yair Rodriguez Aims to Claim Full Credit in Anticipated UFC 290 Battle against Alexander Volkanovski

Rodriguez determined to prove his worth, sets sights on victory over fully prepared Volkanovski

Yair Rodriguez and Alex Volkanovski (image credit Instagram @panteraufc)
By manish kumar | Jul 9, 2023 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Yair Rodriguez is keen to take full credit for his probable victory against Alexander Volkanovski as the highly anticipated UFC 290 pay-per-view (PPV) event approaches. On July 8, 2023, Rodriguez’s bout is set to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. He hopes that fight goers won’t undervalue his success by attributing it just to a recent cut on his opponent’s face.

Rodriguez expressed his concerns, stating, “It makes me sad because when I get this win, I don’t want people saying he was cut or whatever. I want him to be 100 percent.” Recognizing the potential for a doctor’s stoppage due to the cut, he remains adamant that he aims to secure a victory over a fully prepared and uninjured Volkanovski. Despite the possible advantage the cut may offer him, Rodriguez emphasized that he won’t specifically target that area during the fight.

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Volkanovski: “Little Scratch” won’t affect performance against Rodriguez

Volkanovski, who is defending his featherweight strap against Rodriguez, has taken a more lighthearted approach to the situation. Referring to the cut as a “little scratch” incurred during a late grappling session prior to UFC 290, he confidently expressed that it won’t significantly affect his performance. With the cut positioned below his eye, Volkanovski reassured fans that there would be no cause for concern, stating, “There will be no drama at all. It’s all good.”


Both fighters have a strong determination to prove their skills and secure victory in the Octagon this weekend. Rodriguez seeks validation for his win, while Volkanovski remains unfazed by the minor setback. The clash between the current interim 145-pound titleholder and the defending champion promises to be an intense battle, captivating fight fans in “Sin City” and around the world.

As the event unfolds, all eyes will be on Rodriguez and Volkanovski as they vie for the featherweight championship. The outcome will ultimately determine who emerges as the victor and solidify their place in the division. The competitors are ready to give their best and make an impact on the UFC 290 event whether or not Volkanovski’s facial cut becomes an issue.