Alexander Volkanovski is determined to fight at UFC 312 in Australia, aiming for a title bout or interim title match, with potential opponents including the winner of UFC 308’s main event between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway, or top contender Diego Lopes.
Alexander Volkanovski’s got his eyes set on UFC 312 in Australia. He wants gold on the line, no ifs, ands, or buts about it.
Since that tough knockout loss to Ilia Topuria back in February, Volkanovski hasn’t been in the octagon. The loss cost him his featherweight title. But with the UFC heading back to Australia on Feb. 9, he’s determined to fight there, come hell or high water.
“I’m going to do whatever it takes to make sure that I am on that card,” Volkanovski declared at a local press conference via Submission Radio. “I’ll be entertaining in Sydney in February, 100 percent.”
Whether it’s for the title or an interim belt—he’s open to facing Diego Lopes at UFC 312. Lightweight title? Sure, why not. If he can’t fight, maybe he’ll DJ instead. One way or another, he’ll be there.
In an ideal world, he’d face the winner of UFC 308’s main event: Topuria vs. Max Holloway. But he’s realistic; obstacles could keep them from fighting again so soon after October.
Volkanovski hopes either Topuria or Holloway stays fit enough for a quick turnaround. That’s why he’s considering an interim title fight if they can’t make it.
“If there’s injuries or something, I think an interim could be that might fit,” he said. Max has the ‘BMF’ belt too—if he moves up to lightweight, that could mean an interim title fight. He’s pushing for it.
He’s confident both fighters want quick turnarounds but acknowledges injuries and other divisions could complicate things for Max. An interim title would still mean gold for Volkanovski, which is what matters most.
Nothing’s set in stone yet; decisions likely hinge on UFC 308’s outcome. Still, Volkanovski sees top contender Diego Lopes as a probable opponent if Topuria or Holloway aren’t available.
Lopes recently bested Brian Ortega in September and will weigh-in as a backup fighter for the Abu Dhabi title bout on Oct. 26. Volkanovski welcomes the challenge to ensure he fights in Australia come February.
“It’d be exciting with [Diego] Lopes if that happens,” he said. “If not, it’s Max or Ilia.”
As for who wins at UFC 308? Volkanovski’s got history with both fighters but leans towards Holloway taking the crown this time around.
“I think he’s proven himself time and time again,” Volkanovski remarked about Holloway. “Looks like I might have to do No. 4 with the guy.”
Yet deep down, he’d like a rematch with Ilia to reclaim victory. But whoever holds the belt—that’s where the excitement lies!