Alexander Volkanovski is arguably the greatest UFC featherweight in history, with two long championship reigns on his resume. That doesn’t mean he should get the next UFC lightweight title shot.
At the tail end of his illustrious career, it makes sense for Volk to want to cement his legacy by winning a belt in a second weight class. The issue isn’t about whether he deserves the opportunity; he’s shown he’s capable of fighting competitively at 155 in his first fight against a fellow great, Islam Makhachev. The problem is that the UFC lightweight division is already loaded with worthy contenders that have a stronger case to be next in line.
Strong Competition For Next Title Shot
Arman Tsaruykan has the strongest case for a shot at lightweight gold. He is coming off a highlight-reel knockout performance in his last fight against a top contender and has built up a winning streak against ranked competition.
Tsaruykan’s elite grappling, striking skills, and fight IQ will make him a tough challenger. He has also become one of the most popular fighters outside the octagon, thanks to his presence on social media and streaming platforms. The momentum he’s generated makes him one of the biggest attractions the UFC can market right now.
Max Holloway already has several signature victories at lightweight, including a knockout over current champ Justin Gaethje. A former longtime featherweight and BMF champ, Holloway still has championship aspirations at 155 and is just as deserving as Volkanovski in terms of accomplishments.
Ilia Topuria is still ranked as the number one contender in the lightweight division. The former two-division champ had dominated every opponent in his path (including Volkanovski) before a setback against Gaethje, and could step right back in for a rematch that would sell. If an argument can be made that Topuria might need to fight his way back to the title with another win, Volkanovski might need to establish himself at lightweight as well. It would be hard to justify him skipping the line, especially ahead of a popular contender like Tsaruykan, without winning in the division.
A Retirement Could Open Door For Alexander Volkanovski Getting Another UFC Lightweight Title Shot
The entire lightweight title picture could change if Gaethje decides to retire rather than defend his new championship. Volkanovski has pitched the idea of fighting Tsarukyan for the belt if it becomes vacant, and it would become the best title fight the UFC could have for lightweight right now.
Gaethje’s retirement is far from certain, and it could be a long wait into next year until he is ready to fight again in the octagon. Volkanovski is open to other fights if he cannot get the next crack at lightweight gold, and the UFC would be wise to explore it to help clear up the muddied title picture. Could there be a scenario where he just waits it out?
Waiting It Out For A Title Opportunity
Volkanovski is in a position where he could wait for the lightweight title opportunity. He has nothing left to prove at featherweight, and his final run at becoming a two-division champ carries real significance for the UFC to market.
If Gaethje comes back to defend against Tsarukyan, Volk could allow that fight and other contenders to settle. He has expressed that he would like the lightweight championship to be his retirement fight, and patience would give him optimal time to prepare. Time might not be on his side to wait long at 38 years old, although he has not shown any signs of slowing down from his elite form.
Ultimately, the UFC should give Volkanovski a last shot at winning the lightweight belt. With strong contenders also waiting for a chance, it just shouldn’t be the next one.
