Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has set a clear path back to the UFC lightweight title, but first, he must handle business in his own division. As he prepares for his UFC 325 title defence rematch against Diego Lopes in Sydney on 1 February, ‘The Great’ is looking ahead, mapping a route that could see him reclaim ‘champ-champ’ status.
“If I defend my belt a couple of times, I think that puts me in a good position to call for that lightweight title shot again,” Volkanovski stated in a recent interview. “I’ve got to earn it. I can’t just hold up my division.”
The Immediate Task: UFC 325 and Diego Lopes
Volkanovski’s immediate focus is on his highly anticipated rematch with Diego Lopes. This will be his first title defence since reclaiming the featherweight crown, and a victory is non-negotiable for his larger ambitions.
The champion was quick to dismiss any speculation that this fight could be his last. “There’s no plan for this to be my final fight,” Volkanovski clarified, putting retirement rumours to bed. “I’m still here to compete at the highest level and build my legacy.”
This fight is crucial for maintaining momentum. A dominant win would not only solidify his reign at 145lbs but also strengthen his argument for a return to the lightweight division, where he suffered two close losses to the formidable Islam Makhachev.
The Long-Term Goal: A Return to Lightweight
Volkanovski’s desire for another crack at the lightweight strap is well-documented. His two thrilling battles with Makhachev, though losses, proved he belongs among the elite at 155lbs. At 37, he recognises the clock is ticking, making a strategic plan essential.
“The goal is to defend my featherweight title, stay active, and make an undeniable case,” he explained. “I moved back to featherweight to be a fighting champion, not to avoid challenges. But everyone knows I have unfinished business at lightweight.”
His proposed formula is simple: secure two convincing title defences at featherweight, then leverage that success into a third shot at the lightweight gold. This approach shows a champion mindful of his division’s contenders while fiercely pursuing his own historic goals.
Navigating a Stacked Featherweight Division
Before any lightweight dreams can be realised, Volkanovski must navigate a dangerous pool of contenders at 145lbs. The division is packed with hungry challengers, and a loss would reset his ambitious timeline entirely.
By committing to multiple defences, Volkanovski is also ensuring the featherweight division remains active and competitive. It’s a balancing act—honouring his responsibilities as champion while keeping a legendary personal achievement within reach.
Conclusion: A Champion with a Plan
Alexander Volkanovski enters UFC 325 with a dual focus: a stern test in the present against Diego Lopes, and a calculated plan for the future. His journey back to a lightweight title shot is conditional on continued dominance in his own weight class.
For fans, it sets up a compelling narrative for 2025. Can ‘The Great’ successfully defend his throne and force the UFC to grant him another chance at making history? It all begins with a statement victory at UFC 325 in Sydney.
