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He is undoubtedly one of the most respected fighters in UFC history. What Alexander Volkanovski (27-4) has done is within the reach of few. In fact, the Australian became the oldest fighter to regain a championship throne after losing it. He was 36 years old. Now, at 37, he faces a new title defense (in a rematch with Diego Lopes) with an eye on double championship and Ilia Topuria (17-0).
"I would love the rematch and bring those victories back, like with Islam Makhachev or Topuria. But I'm very realistic: I understand that I can't say it's right now, I can't ask for a champion versus champion fight. Maybe after Diego Lopes," 'The Great' told '10News' in Australia.
I would love the rematch and bring those victories back, like with Makhachev or Topuria
A few days ago, in another interview with 'Fox Sports Australia', Volkanovski already spoke about facing (again) Ilia Topuria in the future: "Ilia is a beast, but if I do the right fight... I can definitely win". The 'Aussie' expanded and made it clear that "if the UFC offered me this fight again, I would definitely take it. 100%"
Ilia is a beast, but if I make the right fight... I can definitely win
In the past, Volkanovski, considered by the vast majority to be the featherweight GOAT, already had the chance to be a double champion. He moved up to lightweight to face a newly crowned Islam Makhachev (28-1)... but lost. Twice. And although the first (in February 2023) went to a decision in a very close fight, in the second he was knocked out by the Russian after a brutal head kick.
Now, three years later, he is looking for a new opportunity.