Alexander Volkanovski, at 35, defied expectations at UFC 314 by regaining his featherweight title.
Following losses to Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria, some fans were worried about Volkanovski`s future in the UFC.
However, at UFC 314, he made a strong comeback, delivering a classic victory against Diego Lopes to reclaim the UFC featherweight championship.
This performance proved that the Australian fighter remains a top competitor and is set to begin his second reign as champion in the 145lb division.
Volkanovski Announces Plans for Swift Title Defense
Before UFC 314, both Volkanovski and Lopes mentioned wanting to defend the title against undefeated Russian contender Movsar Evloev if they won.
Evloev quickly responded online after Volkanovski`s victory, congratulating him and urging him to keep his word.
Volkanovski seems ready to accept this challenge, suggesting he wants to fight as early as July against the undefeated Evloev.
“If everything goes well, I`d like to fight sooner than September, maybe even July, and then again in September,” Volkanovski stated at the post-fight press conference.
“If they want to quickly arrange a fight with Movsar and I feel ready, I`m open to a quick turnaround,” he added, indicating his desire for back-to-back fights.
Fans Express Concern Over Volkanovski`s Fast Turnaround
During his first title reign, Volkanovski was known for being a very active champion, but this might have contributed to his recent setbacks.
After a close fight with Islam Makhachev, Volkanovski took a rematch on short notice, resulting in a knockout defeat.
He then quickly returned to defend his title against Topuria, perhaps too soon after the Makhachev loss, and suffered another knockout.
Now, with Volkanovski planning to fight Evloev soon, fans are again voicing their worries, urging him to reconsider this rapid schedule.
One fan commented, “He will sadly get KO’d, he’s taking too much damage. He’s skilled but not as young and driven anymore. People are underestimating Evloev’s power.”
Another fan pleaded, “No, bro. I’m begging you not to do this. Never take a short notice fight again.”
A third fan suggested, “Volk needs to space out his fights. At least 4-5 months minimum.”
Another simply asked, “Please don’t be dumb, Volk.”
Volkanovski has previously spoken about how staying active in fight camps benefits his mental health, which is a key reason for his desire to fight frequently.
Rupert Hartwell 
Benedict Kingsley