Alexander Volkanowski is aiming to return to action at the end of 2024, but with one specific condition: he will only return to featherweight if a title is on the line
A Tough Loss is the Way Forward
When Volkanowski lost his 145-pound belt to Ilya Topuria in February, he immediately called for a rematch. But he realized he needed a break to recover from a string of knockouts. During his hiatus, Max Holloway scored a stunning knockout against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300, after which he announced his intention to challenge Topuria for the featherweight title
A match against Topuria at UFC 306 in September could fulfill Holloway’s plan. This situation leaves Volkanowski without a clear strategy but he understands and reorganizes.
Featherweight Attention: Title or Nothing
“The only things that excite me at featherweight are the belts,” Volkanowski shared on Israel Adesanya’s YouTube channel. “It’s obviously a rematch with Ilya Topuria and the belt, right? That’s a huge one. I want that success back. It will be there. But in short, let’s have some fun while we wait. Maybe they’re going to do Max and Ilia in September. I told the UFC I didn’t want to fight until later in the year. Now that I’ve started training I wish I hadn’t told them that!”
Volkanowski’s drive and determination are evident. He sat sideways and unhappy. He wants to be active and face new challenges as he waits for his chance to reclaim the featherweight crown.
Light Travel Awaits
Despite two failed attempts to win the UFC lightweight title from Islam Makhachev, Volkanowski still can’t give up. He is open to returning to the 155-pound division for an important fight as he awaits his featherweight title shot.
“I said I didn’t want to wait too long either,” Volkanowski explained. “If they want me to fight in March or April, I’ll fight lightweight. Give me that. That’s still interesting. I want an exciting fight like Charles Oliveira. I did call Dustin Poirier. He’s a great dude, we do well, he’s a great fun fight. It is a history of contradictory conflicts. He fought featherweights, and that was a big name, fun fight. That’s exciting.”
Oliveira and Poirier, who competed in April and June respectively, were not booked for the fight, making them potential challengers for Volkanowski and his willingness to seek opportunities in a different weight class shows his versatility he was hungry to compete.
Aceptance of New Challenges
Volkanowski never stops competing in various weight classes. With Holloway likely to fight Topuria before the end of the year, Volkanowski will have to wait until 2025 for another featherweight title shot. Picking a small fight can be a great way to stay active, get a good payday, and maintain that competitive advantage.
“Anything that makes me happy,” Volkanowski said. “The bolt makes me happy. The Ilia rematch obviously makes me happy. That’s the essence of featherweights. I just don’t like anyone fighting with featherweight. My next fight is for the title and that’s it. The UFC knows that and I know that. We can have some fun during light loads. Something interesting. It’s a great fight that makes me happy.”
Volkanovski’s strategic approach showcases his dedication and competitive spirit. He is prepared to navigate the complexities of the fight game while keeping his eyes firmly on reclaiming his featherweight title.
