Alexander Volkanovski, the former featherweight champion, is currently in a position where he is awaiting the winner of the upcoming fight between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway. After defending his featherweight title five times, Volkanovski faced back-to-back knockout losses to lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and Topuria. Despite expressing his desire for a break, he understands the importance of waiting for a title shot rather than just being active and fighting any contender in the featherweight division.
The Temptation of Moving Up in Weight
Initially, Volkanovski toyed with the idea of taking a fight at lightweight while Topuria defends his title against Holloway. However, he later decided against it, realizing the risk involved in potentially losing his shot at the featherweight title. The UFC has shown its support for Volkanovski’s decision to wait for the title fight, highlighting the significance of staying committed to a specific weight class in order to secure a title shot.
Volkanovski’s dedication to the featherweight division is evident in his decision to prioritize a title fight over the allure of exciting matchups in the lightweight division. While there may be tempting opportunities in other weight classes, Volkanovski recognizes the importance of consistency and focus in his pursuit of reclaiming the featherweight title. The UFC’s stance on fighters moving between weight classes further reinforces his commitment to staying in the featherweight division.
As he awaits the outcome of the Topuria vs. Holloway fight, Volkanovski remains focused on his goal of regaining the featherweight title. His patience and strategic approach to his career trajectory demonstrate a mature understanding of the dynamics within the sport. By prioritizing a title shot and resisting the urge to explore other weight classes, Volkanovski is positioning himself for a significant return to the octagon. The upcoming months will reveal whether his decision to wait for the title shot pays off and propels him back into the spotlight in the featherweight division.