Alexander Volkanovski joins in on the Million Dollar Fish action

The country’s greatest ever UFC fighter has taken off his gloves and picked up a fishing rod in a bid to catch the big one, and has discussed his plans ahead of his title defence.

Australia’s greatest ever UFC fighter switched the octagon for the ocean on a visit to the Top End.

Alexander ‘The Great’ Volkanovski made a surprise appearance in the NT this week, promoting Sportsbet’s Million Dollar Fish competition.

“We were lucky enough to fish pretty much all day,” Volkanovski said.

“That’s one thing that ultimately blows me away is that people get to do this, and not only have a chance to win a million dollars, or 10k fish, but literally enjoy this beautiful country but beautiful adventures that you can do here.”

As it turns out, not only is Volkanovski one of the best in the cage, he’s not too bad out on the water either.

“There’s a whole Esky full there (of fish),” he said.

“We got a jewfish, mackerel, tuna, golden snapper, you name it, barramundi obviously, just not a tagged one unfortunately.

“We’ve organised our next trip so shows you how much we’re enjoying it here.

“You’re winning just by fishing here and then you win big if you actually get the million dollar fish.”

Alexander Volkanovski with a barra he caught while in the NT. Picture: Alexander Volkanovski - Instagram.

It was a change of pace for the current featherweight champion, who is much more accustomed to the hell for leather world of MMA, and explained that while he was always out and about in his early years, it’s been a bit less frequent in the recent times.

“I always did this growing up, with my old man,” Volkanovski said.

“But I’d be lying if I say I’ve been doing that a heap lately because I’m obviously keeping busy.

“The timing fit perfect, I’ll go get my next fight out of the way and then I’ll be back.”

Volkanovski’s next fight is set for February 18 against top contender Ilia Topuria at UFC 298.

“Usually I do about an eight-week camp but we’ll probably do about 12-weeks, so longer than usual but I’ll half it so I can have a nice little break in between and refresh everything so I can go out there and defend that belt and bring another ruby and belt back home to Australia,” he said.