Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has found an unlikely ally in one of the UFC's biggest stars.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner is currently at the center of controversy at the Australian Open.
Djokovic declined to conduct his usual on-court interview after Sunday's fourth-round victory over Jiri Lehecka.
The Serbian then explained that his actions were in response to Channel Nine's Tony Jones mocking his fans by saying: “Novak, he's overrated, Novak has been one, Novak is kicking him out” while live on air is.
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
Alexander Volkanovski supports Novak Djokovic
Djokovic demanded a public apology in a viral video that has been viewed more than 70 million times in less than two hours.
“I would like to clarify the reason why the interview did not take place in court,” he said.
“A few days ago, the famous sports journalist who works here in Australia for the official broadcaster Channel Nine, made fun of Serbian fans and also made insulting and insulting comments to me.
“And since then he has chosen not to make any public apology. Neither does Channel Nine. Because they are official broadcasters, I have chosen not to give interviews for Channel Nine.
“I have nothing against Jim Courier or the Australian public. It was a very difficult situation for me to experience on the field today.”
Former UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski was among numerous people who commented on the clip.
The proud Australian and former pound-for-pound number one UFC fighter sided with Djokovic as he also demanded an apology from the TV channel.
Volkanovski tweeted: “He is right and he should get an apology!”
On Monday, Jones relented when he publicly apologized to Djokovic and his fans for unintentionally disrespecting them.
The 63-year-old insisted his comments were “banter and humour” but admitted they were not received that way.
What's next for Alexander Volkanovski?
Once he's done watching tennis, Alexander Volkanovski continues preparing for his comeback.
'The Great' hasn't fought since Ilia Topuria knocked him out to take his 145-pound title at UFC 298 last February.
Since then, Topuria has solidified his reign by doing the same to Max Holloway at UFC 308.
Volkanovski previously claimed he was promised a rematch for the featherweight title.
“Fighting for the title, that's pretty much what I'm promised,” he told Submission Radio in October.
“I am facing the winner from Ilia and Max. I can certainly guarantee that.”
In an ideal world, Volkanovski would face Topuria again at UFC 312 on February 9. Unfortunately for him, that card is now completely set and there has been no announcement that he will be part of the UFC's return to Australia.
Now we just have to wait and see whether UFC boss Dana White makes good on his promise to Volkanoski.
If not, top featherweight Diego Lopes wants to fight him, as does the hottest free agent in MMA, Patricio “Pitbull” Freire, who called him up after being fully released from his PFL/Bellator contract last week.
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