Alexander Volkanovski is relishing his showdown with Islam Makhachev ahead of what he calls the 'defining year' for his career. 

The Aussie UFC star, who has earned the chance to become a two-weight champion by dominating at featherweight, is set to face the Russian at UFC 284 in Perth next February. 

Volkanovski will give up plenty of size to the Dagestani wrestler but is chasing greatness and a continued place as the sport's pound-for-pound No 1.  

'Islam’s strong,' Volkanovski said on his YouTube channel. 'Islam’s going to be ready. But I guarantee you, mark my words, I’m going to be ready. I’m going to be more than ready. 

'I’m going to be fit, I’m going to be stronger than ever. I’m already filling up. I’m already holding more muscle than I originally did in my last few fights. I’m already stronger, significantly stronger.'

Volkanovski has swept everyone aside at 145-pounds, winning emphatically over Max Holloway in their trilogy bout before swatting aside Chan Sung Jung earlier this year. 

He is stepping up against a man many favour, including the bookmakers. 

Makhachev made light work of Charles Oliveira who has been on scintillating form before their showdown. 

But Volkanovski knows that the chance to ink his name into the history books is motivation enough. 

He went on: 'When I’m telling you 2023 is gonna be the biggest year of my whole career, my legacy – this is the defining yea. 

'2023, it starts off with taking out Islam. Big opportunity to not only be great, but to be one of the greatest. So, that’s what I’m coming for.'