Alexander Volkanovski finds himself in the midst of uncertainty regarding his next opponent and the weight class he will compete in when he returns to the Octagon. Despite this ambiguity, his determination to compete at the highest level in the UFC remains unwavering. Following his unexpected loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298 in February, where Volkanovski relinquished the featherweight title he had held for almost five years, the Australian star is on a path of recovery. Speaking to ESPN, Volkanovski confirmed that his next fight at featherweight will be for the title, though specific details such as scheduling and potential opponents are still up in the air.
A rematch against Topuria, who defeated Volkanovski, would typically be the next logical step for someone who had such dominance over the division. However, Topuria’s declaration of a desire to fight Max Holloway, the second-ranked featherweight, has created a curveball in the situation. Topuria has deemed a fight against Holloway as “legacy” defining, and the UFC seems inclined to make this match happen later in the year. This disrupts Volkanovski’s plans of regaining his title in 2024, as the winner of Holloway versus Topuria may not face him next.
Despite his initial plan to make a comeback towards the end of the year, Volkanovski’s eagerness to return to the Octagon is growing. Speculation suggests that he may appear sooner than expected, possibly at UFC 305 in Perth later this year. With a stacked card rumored to include former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya, Volkanovski’s return could be a highlight of the event. Volkanovski’s recent training in Thailand has reignited his passion for fighting, prompting discussions with his manager about potential opportunities to get back into competition sooner than planned.
If the UFC has assured Volkanovski a chance to reclaim his featherweight title, his appearance in Perth this August might occur at lightweight. Volkanovski has previously fought in the lightweight division, facing current champion Islam Makhachev twice and experiencing defeat on both occasions. These battles, particularly the one in Perth in February 2023, were intense and memorable displays of skill. Regardless of the weight class or opponent, Volkanovski remains committed to his training and eager to make a return to the Octagon.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his future fights, Volkanovski has embraced the opportunity to take a break from the intense world of competitive fighting. After dedicating over a decade to the sport, he appreciates the chance to spend more time with his family and recharge both physically and mentally. Reflecting on his journey in the UFC and his commitment to the sport, Volkanovski remains proud of the mindset that has brought him success and is looking forward to what lies ahead in his fighting career.
Alexander Volkanovski’s path back to the top of the UFC is filled with uncertainties and challenges. From unexpected losses to potential changes in weight classes and opponents, his journey is one of resilience and determination. As he navigates the ever-evolving landscape of mixed martial arts, Volkanovski’s passion for competition and his dedication to his craft continue to shine through, promising an exciting return to the Octagon in the near future.
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