Javier Mendez states when "very physical" Islam Makhachev will possibly begin preparations for Alexander Volkanovski fight – "He knows when to have fun"

Javier Mendez has given an update regarding Islam Makhachev's preparations for his upcoming fight against Alexander Volkanovski.

The AKA headcoach recently made an appearance on Jimmy Smith's Red Corner Talk. At one point during the conversation, Mendez spoke about Makhachev's training schedule for the upcoming fight in February.

Mendez said that although the Dagestani is currently enjoying himself after his well-earned title victory at UFC 280, he is always doing some sort of physical training:

"He's [Islam Makhachev] such a professional. He knows when to have fun and right now, I imagine he's enjoying the fruits of what he's done. I saw him at the Formula One. I saw him with the Prince of Dubai. I'm verry happy for him. He's worked very hard... Trust me, he's always training...he likes to be very physical."

Giving a timeline on when Makhachev's training camp will start for his showdown against Volkanovski, Mendez said:

"I would say honestly, two months out, when he'll start really really getting back into camp...and that's what you can expect, two months out."

You can listen to the full conversation below:

Makhachev and Volkanovski will headline the UFC 284 card that is set to take place in Perth, Australia. The fight will be a rare instance when the top two pound-for-pound fighters will lock horns inside the octagon.

---

Robert Whittaker shares his thoughts on Islam Makhachev versus Alexander Volkanosvki

Former UFC champion Robert Whittaker does not believe Islam Makhachev will have an easy day out in his showdown against Alexander Volkanovski.

Giving his take on the superfight, Whittaker said that Volkanovski's experience at heavier weight divisions might pose problems for the Dagestani:

"I think this is a hard fight 'cause Alex is taking the challenge. But Alex is a powerhouse. And he's fought at the heavier divisions. I don't think we'll see Makhachev have his way with Alex, as everybody seems to believe. I think he's in for a hard fight himself."

You can watch Whittaker talk about the matchup below:

Whittaker will also be a part of the UFC 284 card. 'The Reaper' will take on Paulo Costa in a middleweight scrap. The winner could potentially go on to fight for the title in their next outing.