Alexander Volkanovski made two attempts to become a double champion by moving to the lightweight division. However, lightweight champion Islam Makhachev successfully defended his title both times. After suffering two defeats against Makhachev, the Australian fighter also appears to disagree with Ilia Topuria’s suggestion of challenging Makhachev for the lightweight title.
After losing the featherweight title to Ilia Topuria, Alexander Volkanovski took a break from fighting. However, the Australian fighter recently announced his return, with his next fight set for UFC 312 in Sydney. During a press conference, the former featherweight champion praised Islam Makhachev for his fighting style and also commented on a potential matchup between ‘El Matador’ and Makhachev. Volkanovski said:
“Islam is really very good. He is strong, attentive. But Ilia is such a guy who can knock out anyone. He got power in his hands. You go there fighting him you know it’s his chance of winning. But I feel you need to show more in order to be favourite especially against somebody like Islam.”
‘The Great,’ stated that the Russian fighter, Islam Makhachev, is extremely skilled and that Topuria needs to improve further. However, ‘El Matador’ remains undefeated in the UFC and is set to defend his title against Max Holloway at UFC 308, just weeks away. Volkanovski also discussed the opponents he would like to face at UFC 312, mentioning Topuria, Holloway, and Diego Lopes as potential matchups.
Alexander Volkanovski Names Ilia Topuria, Max Holloway, And Diego Lopes As Possible Opponents For UFC 312
Volkanovski has suffered two consecutive losses, both in title fights. First, he challenged Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 294 but was knocked out in the first round. Then, in his featherweight title defense against Ilia Topuria, he was knocked out in the second round.
Despite these setbacks, Volkanovski remains determined to bounce back and is preparing for a comeback at UFC 312 in Sydney. He stressed that he wants nothing short of a title fight and mentioned he’s likely to face the winner of the Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway bout. During the press conference, the Australian fighter said:
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“So, even if it is interim [title], that’s still a big one. I’d say, it’d be an exciting one with Lopes. I’d say, if that was going to happen. If not, it’s Max or Ilia.”
Diego Lopes has also shown his eagerness to fight the former champion, expressing on X that February works well for him. While Volkanovski’s opponent has yet to be confirmed, fans are eager to see who the Australian fighter will face in his comeback.
