Following the first successful title defense of his second reign at featherweight, Alexander Volkanovski is now determined to take charge and fulfill his role as champion in every way.
The Aussie has promised he will make sure only deserving contenders get to fight for the title from now on.
‘The Great’ locked horns with Lopes earlier today in a title rematch at UFC 325, handing the same fate to the challenger as at UFC 314. Alexander Volkanovski was once more the well-rounded fighter, who fought a tactical bout and did not serve his head on a platter to Lopes.
‘The Great’ dictated the pace throughout the 25 minutes, maintained the perfect distance, and had consistent output. After 5 rounds of technical brilliance and some showboating in the closing stanza, the 37 year old cruised to a unanimous decision victory.
The current and two-time 145-pound UFC champion has no plans to retire anytime soon. In his second reign at featherweight, he plans to defend his title against deserving contenders next.
Alexander Volkanovski does not want contenders to be fast-tracked to a title shot
At the post-fight presser, when informed about Jean Silva and Arman Tsarukyan’s desire to fight for the featherweight championship next, ‘The Great’ opined that since he is the champion, it’s his responsibility to make sure that the only ones who deserve a title shot should get one. He said:
I’ve got a responsibility as a champion. I don’t think enough champions look at it that way. There are rankings for a reason. If I’m just going to keep letting other people cut the line, I’m not really doing my part.”
Check out Alexander Volkanovski’s comments below:
Volkanovski recaptured the strap last year by beating Diego Lopes at UFC 314. He wanted to fight Movsar Evloev or Lerone Murphy next. However, neither of the undefeated top 145-pounders was handed a title shot. Instead, the promotion gave Lopes the title rematch after the latter stopped Jean Silva at Noche UFC 2025 and returned to winning ways.
However, Alexander Volkanovski is not letting the matchmakers do anything similar for his next title defense. He has made it clear that he wants to fight Murphy or Evloev next.
On the other hand, both the potential future title challengers have reacted to Alexander Volkanovski’s UFC 325 win.
Movsar Evloev lauded the 37-year-old and added that he can’t wait to lock horns with the Aussie.
“Great fight by @alexvolkanovski , he showed that you can get better at that age. I can’t wait to share a cage to show why I am different than these guys! #ufc325”
However, Murphy issued a warning, making it clear that he has his sights set on Volkanovski’s throne. The Brit posted on X:
“Told you so. I believe I have the style to dethrone the champ. ⏰”
