Alex Volkanovski has reached out to UFC President Dana White regarding his anticipated rematch against Ilia Topuria, who is considering a shift to lightweight. The Australian star previously aimed to headline UFC 312 but faced challenges following Topuria’s win over Max Holloway last year. Both fighters will corner their respective teammates at an upcoming event.
Volkanovski expressed frustration about the lack of official details from the UFC regarding his shot at Topuria’s title, especially with talk of the champion possibly moving up a weight class. He made it clear he’s eager to return to the cage after a lengthy break since his loss to Topuria in February 2024.
In an interview, Volkanovski reflected on his time off, revealing it allowed him to reconnect with his identity away from fighting, an experience he embraced. He acknowledged the emotional turmoil he faced after previous defeats and the pressure of his championship responsibilities. Yet, he feels ready to dive back into high-level competition with a fresh mindset.
As UFC 312 approaches, Volkanovski predicts that Du Plessis will successfully defend his title, expecting the fight to go the distance. He is enthusiastic about resuming his fighting career, feeling reinvigorated and prepared for the challenges ahead.