Introduction

Alexander Volkanovski has indicated he would welcome a second clash with Ilia Topuria, provided the UFC lightweight championship is on the line. The recent UFC 333 winner is weighing his next move as he considers his legacy and potential retirement path.

What Happened

Volkanovski’s reign at featherweight ended in dramatic fashion when Topuria captured the 145lb title at UFC 298 in early 2024. Since moving up, Topuria has unified the lightweight division and eventually lost the belt to Justin Gaethje at a historic event at the White House in June. Meanwhile, Volkanovski returned to winning form with a knockout of Movsar Evloev at UFC 333, signaling he still has plenty left in the tank.

Why This Matters

A potential second fight between Volkanovski and Topuria would do more than settle a personal rivalry—it would reshape the lightweight hierarchy, impact Gaethje’s future, and influence both fighters’ legacies. With Gaethje potentially stepping away, the door opens for a title-unification bout that could define Volkanovski’s final chapters. Other contenders like Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett are also monitoring the situation closely.

Key Takeaways

  • Volkanovski is only willing to rematch Topuria if the UFC lightweight title is at stake.
  • The first encounter saw Topuria defeat Volkanovski and claim the featherweight championship.
  • Gaethje’s recent belt loss and potential retirement could clear the path for a high-stakes rematch.
  • Both fighters remain elite, but Volkanovski insists on a title incentive before stepping back into the Octagon.
  • The division’s next chapter hinges on Gaethje’s decision and whether Volkanovski chooses to compete beyond this year.

Conclusion

Volkanovski’s openness to a Topuria rematch comes with a clear caveat: the lightweight belt must be involved. As he weighs his future, fans can expect the featherweight and lightweight landscapes to shift depending on whether he pursues this matchup or pivots toward other legacy-defining battles. Whatever he decides, the rivalry will remain one of the most talked-about storylines in recent UFC history.