Ilia Topuria Praises Alexander Volkanovski After Title Victory

Ilia Topuria expressed genuine happiness for Alexander Volkanovski after Volkanovski reclaimed the UFC Featherweight Championship.

Volkanovski had hoped to defend his title against Topuria, his former rival, but circumstances changed.

After Topuria vacated the title following wins against Volkanovski and Max Holloway, Volkanovski faced Diego Lopes for the vacant belt at UFC 314.

Volkanovski successfully returned after two knockout losses and a year away from fighting, delivering a dominant performance against Lopes and winning back his championship via unanimous decision.

Topuria Commends Volkanovski`s Achievement

Alexander Volkanovski`s featherweight record now stands at an impressive 18-1, with his sole defeat in the division against Topuria.

“He’s so great,” Topuria acknowledged about Volkanovski.

“I was genuinely happy for him this past Saturday because he truly deserves to regain that title.”

Volkanovski boasts an impressive record of 7 title fight victories and 5 title defenses. He could have accumulated even more had he not pursued the Lightweight title against Islam Makhachev in two fights in 2023.

Topuria Unfazed by Volkanovski`s Success

Joe Rogan questioned Topuria, now no longer the Featherweight Champion, about his feelings on Volkanovski winning “his” title:

“Does it bother you to see someone win your title?” Rogan asked.

“No,” Topuria responded.

“Not at all. I’m good. Happy for him,” Topuria reiterated his positive sentiment towards Volkanovski.

Unlike Conor McGregor, who vacated the Featherweight division after defeating Jose Aldo, Ilia Topuria defended the featherweight title once against Max Holloway at UFC 308.

“I won. I defended,” Topuria stated.

“Right now, I have a completely different challenge ahead of me.”

“I wish him nothing but the best, and to everyone, I wish the best wins all the time,” Topuria concluded.

Ilia Topuria is now focused on challenging Islam Makhachev for the Lightweight title and is not interested in fighting any other opponent at 155lbs at this time.