Alexander Volkanovski retained his UFC featherweight title at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi, stopping previously unbeaten Movsar Evloev in the second round. The result raises the question of what comes next for one of the greatest featherweights in UFC history.
Volkanovski won by TKO at 4:54 of round two on October 24. It was Evloev’s first professional loss, dropping him to 20-1. The win gave Volkanovski nine featherweight title-fight victories, the most in UFC history, ahead of José Aldo.
At 38, the champion has said he does not want to hold up the division. He has also been open about retirement being close. Here are three possible opponents.
1. Justin Gaethje
Gaethje is Volkanovski’s preferred next opponent. The Australian has pitched a champion-versus-champion fight for the lightweight title as a send-off for both men.
Gaethje won the undisputed lightweight belt in June at UFC Freedom 250, stopping Ilia Topuria in the fourth round. Since then he has not committed to defending it or even to fighting again. Reports also link him to a defense against contender Arman Tsarukyan.
After UFC 333, Alexander Volkanovski said he would retire for this fight, and later said it would be his last, win or lose. Dana White opened the door, saying there is little the UFC would refuse Volkanovski given what he has accomplished. The fight depends on Gaethje’s decision. It is a proposal, not a booking.
2. Jean Silva
If Volkanovski stays at 145 pounds, Jean Silva is one of the most popular options. He is a heavy-handed finisher with four knockout wins in the UFC, and he is ranked No. 5 in the division.
The matchup is a clear style contrast. Volkanovski brings volume, movement and sharp defensive wrestling. Silva brings pressure and knockout power.
Silva is not the only option. Lerone Murphy (No. 3) and Aljamain Sterling (No. 4) are ranked higher and are also candidates. Some outlets expect Silva to get the call, but the UFC has not announced anything.
3. Ilia Topuria
Volkanovski has named a rematch with Topuria as his backup plan if the Gaethje fight falls through. Topuria knocked him out in the second round at UFC 298 in February 2024, ending his first title reign.
The context has changed since then. Topuria vacated the featherweight title and won the lightweight belt, but he lost it to Gaethje in June. Any rematch would likely take place at 155 pounds and would depend on how Gaethje’s future plays out. Volkanovski himself admitted it may not make sense until Gaethje decides what he is doing.
A rematch would still be a major storyline. It would give Volkanovski a chance to avenge the loss that ended his first reign.
What Happens Next for Alexander Volkanovski?
Gaethje is the fight Volkanovski wants, and his own words suggest it would be his last. If Gaethje retires or stays on a different path, Topuria offers a personal rivalry, while Silva, Murphy and Sterling would give him a credible defense at featherweight.
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