Alexander Volkanovski eyes January return, potential Topuria showdown

September 27, 2023 6:36 am.by Staff Writer

Alexander Volkanovski shunned by Wollongong

UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski is looking to make his return to the octagon in January at UFC 297, potentially setting up a matchup with rising contender Ilia Topuria.

Volkanovski recently underwent surgery on his arm and is currently undergoing six weeks of rehabilitation before he can resume training.

Despite dealing with the injury for over a year, he pushed through it to defend and unify the title by defeating Yair Rodriguez via round 3 TKO in July.

“I’m feeling really great,” Volkanovski shared during an interview with The Associated Press.

“The surgery went smoothly.

My rehab progress is ahead of schedule.

I’m eagerly looking forward to getting there and defending my title once again.”

Considered one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC, Volkanovski has had a reign as featherweight champion, successfully defending his title five times against formidable opponents such as Max Holloway, Brian Ortega, Chan Sung Jung, and Yair Rodriguez.

He has also expressed interest in a rematch against Islam Makhachev for a championship bout at UFC 300.

“My goal is to be recognised as the best fighter in the world, which means taking on top-notch opponents,” added Volkanovski.

“I have no fear of anyone.

I am confident that I have the ability to defeat any opponent.”

The potential matchup between Volkanovski and Topuria has sparked a lot of excitement among fans, as Topuria is widely regarded as the next top contender in the featherweight division.

Born in Georgia and representing Spain, Topuria has a record of 14 victories in his 14 fights, including six consecutive wins in the UFC.

“Topuria is definitely a fighter,” Volkanovski commented.

“He possesses skills and solid wrestling abilities.

However, I firmly believe that I have what it takes to come out victorious.

There’s a reason why I’m the champion.

I won’t surrender my title without putting up a fight.”

While there are speculations about his bout, Volkanovski remains focused on leaving his mark in both the featherweight and the lightweight division.

He aims to seek redemption for his loss against Makhachev and make history by becoming one of the five fighters to hold two UFC titles simultaneously. “I’m far from being done,” asserts Volkanovski.

“There’s still more that I want to achieve in this sport.

My ultimate goal is to become recognised as the best fighter of all time.

I’ll do whatever it takes to reach that pinnacle.”

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