"This short guy isn't easy to hold down"- Alexander Volkanovski vows to not be controlled on the ground by Islam Makhachev in their expected matchup

Following UFC 280, Alexander Volkanovski was called into the octagon by Islam Makhachev and their proposed champ vs. champ title fight was set into motion. Despite the lightweight titleholder's confidence, the featherweight king believes he's at an advantage and won't be controlled on the ground.

Volkanovski has shown incredible resilience throughout his UFC career thus far and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Despite being rocked by Max Holloway in their second bout and almost being choked unconscious by Brian Ortega, the the Australian managed to survive and stay undefeated in the division.

During a video posted to his YouTube channel, Alexander Volkanovski previewed his potential clash against Islam Makhachev. He insisted that he's going to surprise his opponent inside the octagon:

"I honestly believe he's underestimating, I think that's why they want this [fight against me], that's an advantage to me... I guarantee you, he is not holding me down, and even if he gets me flat on my back, I am getting up. Mark my words when I say that... He's going to be frustrated, uncomfortable in there. Especially when things don't go to plan, especially when he realizes this short guy isn't as easy to hold down as he thought. If there's any man to do this [beat Makhachev], it's me."

Islam Makhachev managed to follow in his longtime friend and training partner Khabib Nurmagomedov's footsteps when he captured the coveted UFC lightweight strap on his first attempt last time out.

As he now begins his title reign, the Russian has the task of ending the featherweight champion's 22-fight win-streak, which in turn will earn him No.1 pound-for-pound honors.

Check out what Alexander Volkanovski had to say about a possible fight against Islam Makhachev in the video below:

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How will Alexander Volkanovski deal with Islam Makhachev's grappling?

Throughout the years in the octagon, Alexander Volkanovski has had to deal with his fair share of wrestlers and grapplers. That means he will be well-versed about how to deal with the style.

Though he has found himself in trouble a couple of times in the cage, he has always come out on top and proved he's one of the toughest fighters currently in the sport.

While he has looked fantastic against opponents like Darren Elkins, Chad Mendes, and Brian Ortega, he is yet to face somebody like Islam Makhachev. The size and style could pose a constant threat to the 145lber, which surrounds this bout with much anticipation.