Alexander Volkanovski recently sounded off on Ilia Topuria for his reluctance to defend his championship in hopes of a lucrative bout against Conor McGregor. The Australian claimed that the UFC hasn't been too pleased with the 27-year-old as a result.
'El Matador' and 'Volk' most recently competed at UFC 298, which saw the 27-year-old earn an incredible second-round knockout to become the new featherweight champion and remain undefeated. Topuria's championship win was reminiscent of McGregor's win over Jose Aldo in that he manifested exactly what would end up transpiring in the fight.
While speaking with Main Event's Nick Walshaw, the former UFC featherweight champion aimed at 'El Matador' for holding up the division since winning the title. Volkanovski questioned Topuria's motives and mentioned that he should be defending his title against the top contenders. He said:
"[Topuria] doesn't want to fight any of the top guys...What he's doing...I guarantee you the UFC aren't happy with it. Especially him saying he doesn't want to fight anyone but Conor McGregor. C'mon mate, f****ing stay in your lane."
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Check out Alexander Volkanovski's comments below:
Alexander Volkanovski eyeing return to lightweight following loss to Ilia Topuria
Aside from a rematch against Ilia Topuria, Alexander Volkanovski noted that he doesn't believe there are any appealing bouts for him at 145 pounds.
The former UFC featherweight champion had a dominant reign and defeated several top contenders both on his ascension to a title fight and as champion. With that in mind, he expressed interest in returning to lightweight for his next bout.
During the aforementioned conversation, Volkanovski named Charles Oliveira as an intriguing bout and appeared to be optimistic that it would materialize. He said:
"What happens if you wait around and fall off the edge? If all of a sudden you're 36 and literally it goes. I still feel great but there is the risk of that. Or maybe I wait it out, get injured and then suddenly you haven't fought in two years."
Check out Spinnin Backfist's tweet regarding Alexander Volkanvoski's comments about Charles Oliveira below: