UFC 308 was one of this year’s standout events, headlined by a showdown between Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria. Many stars weighed in with predictions, including Cristiano Ronaldo, who backed Holloway to win. However, Topuria ended up knocking Holloway out. During his prediction, Ronaldo commented that Topuria “talks too much,” prompting a response from ‘El Matador’ to the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Ronaldo made his prediction alongside Francis Ngannou and his coach, Eric Nicksick, before ‘The Predator’s’ MMA return against Renan Ferreira, picking ‘Blessed’ as the likely winner. Recently, the Spanish fighter responded to Ronaldo’s comments, clarifying that he is confident, not arrogant. Expressing surprise at Ronaldo’s inability to see the difference, Topuria stated:
“I didn’t expect someone like you to be unable to distinguish between confidence and arrogance. But, at the end of the day, we all reflect our own reality onto others. I wish you the best for what remains of your career, and God bless your family.”
Topuria delivered a stellar performance, successfully defending his title in front of the Abu Dhabi crowd. While Ronaldo’s prediction didn’t play out as expected, he had also mentioned in his conversation with Ngannou that Topuria could have faced defeat against Alexander Volkanovski.
Cristiano Ronaldo Questions Ilia Topuria’s Win Over Alexander Volkanovski After Quick Comeback
A few weeks before UFC 308, Ronaldo was seen at the PFL with Francis Ngannou and his coach, Eric Nicksick. He spoke about UFC featherweight champion Topuria’s recent win, expressing that ‘El Matador’ could have lost to Volkanovski. Ronaldo suggested that ‘The Great’ returned too soon after a knockout loss to Islam Makhachev and wasn’t fully recovered. He commented:
“I think he when he beat ‘Volk’, ‘Volk’ wasn’t [ready] because of that kick [from Makhachev]. [Volkanovski] didn’t recover…[Topuria] didn’t fight with the top guys. If he beats Max, I will respect. Never been KO.”
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Topuria’s recent comment on Ronaldo has stirred excitement. Having already defeated one of the greatest featherweights of all time, the Spanish fighter now aims even higher. He’s set his sights on a second belt, challenging lightweight champion Makhachev for a title defense. While officials haven’t confirmed this matchup yet, fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement.
Also Read: VIDEO: Ilia Topuria Delivers On His Promise, Becomes First Man To Knock Out Max Holloway At UFC 308
