Alexander Volkanovski only has Ilia Topuria in his mind for his next fight. The former featherweight champion, who suffered a disastrous second successive KO loss of his career in his last fight against Topuria for the featherweight gold, is not interested in fighting anybody else but the Spaniard Ilia Topuria.
Reflecting on UFC 298, Volkanovski posted a video on his YouTube channel and shared his thoughts on the fight and his return timeline.
Alexander Volkanovski says he did not feel the same against Ilia Topuria
The Australian fighter is enjoying the time off from training and says he is enjoying the recovery process and not having to go to the gym daily.
“A break is obviously good for the head, so it makes sense. I know I ain’t fighting till the rematch which isn’t gonna be till later this year anyway. So, it’s perfect. o, right now, it just feels like there’s just no pressure on me to get back in the gym, rush anything. I feel like I can train outside of my life.”
“My next fight is definitely, 100% would be the rematch,” Volkanovski said while clarifying that he is not ready for a quick turnaround. The Great plans to fight one more time this year, but not anytime soon.
Volkanovski has made it clear several times in the past that he wants a rematch next. He made it clear in the UFC 298 post-fight press conference and echoed the same words ever since.
Alexander Volkanovski claims he didn’t feel like himself against Ilia Topuria.
Mentions that he was fighting to not get caught, and he doesn’t wanna give away too much because he expects a rematch.
🎥 YT / Alexander Volkanovski #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/UoohaRXnj2
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) February 29, 2024
However, Ilia Topuria has not shown any optimism towards a rematch against Volk. On the contrary, the Spaniard even advised Volkanovski to retire soon after winning the title earlier this month.
In a recent interview, Topuria has hinted that he is targeting September-October for his first title defense.
⚡️😱 Ilia Topuria has told to Spanish media that he plans to retire young at 30-32 years old. He’s 27 now.
Also, Topuria has said that his next fight may not be until October or November. 😳 pic.twitter.com/WPSJ6gaaFI
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) February 29, 2024
If not for Volkanovski, Brian Ortega has also stood out as a possible next opponent for Topuria after his spectacular third-round submission win over Yair Rodriguez back at UFC Mexico.
