UFC star's $2 million Sydney pledge... and shock Volk tip

UFC star's $2 million Sydney pledge

UFC superstar Conor McGregor has pledged $2 million to help build a new state-of-the-art mixed martial arts facility in Sydney.

The Notorious one made the announcement at a press conference in Sydney on Thursday, saying he was "excited to be part of something so special".

The new facility will be located at the Sydney Olympic Park and will be used by fighters of all ages and skill levels.

McGregor said he hoped the facility would help to develop the next generation of UFC champions.

In other UFC news, Alexander Volkanovski has tipped himself to beat Islam Makhachev in their lightweight title fight at UFC 284 in Perth next year.

Volkanovski is the current featherweight champion, but he is moving up to lightweight to challenge Makhachev for the 155-pound belt.

The Australian is a huge underdog against Makhachev, who is widely regarded as one of the best fighters in the world.

However, Volkanovski is confident he can pull off the upset.

"I know I'm the underdog, but I'm not worried about that," Volkanovski said.

"I've been training hard and I'm ready for this challenge.

"I believe in myself and I know I can beat anyone.