Alexander Volkanovski: “I would take an Interim title fight under one circumstance”

Alexander Volkanovski, the number one contender for the UFC featherweight title, has spoken out about his next fight. Volkanovski is currently waiting for the winner of the upcoming featherweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway, which is scheduled for UFC 308 on October 26th.

In the meantime, Volkanovski has been linked to a potential fight with Diego Lopes, who recently defeated Brian Ortega at UFC 306. Volkanovski says that he is open to fighting Lopes, but only for an interim title.

“I’m the number one contender,” Volkanovski said. “I’m waiting for the winner of Topuria and Holloway. But if they’re not ready for a quick turnaround, I’m open to fighting Diego Lopes for an interim title.”

🇲🇽🇦🇺Alexander Volkanovski confirms that his next fight will be for the title and he is open to fight Diego Lopes for the interim title if needed

🎥 YT @alexvolkanovski ▫️ pic.twitter.com/iSQG99rrOC

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 15, 2024

Volkanovski would prefer to fight for the undisputed title, but he is willing to fight for an interim title if it means getting back in the cage sooner rather than later.

“I want to fight for the undisputed title,” Volkanovski said. “But if the timing doesn’t work out, I’m open to discussing an interim title fight with the UFC.”

It is interesting to hear Volkanovski say that he is open to fighting for an interim title. In the past, Volkanovski has been critical of interim titles, arguing that they devalue the undisputed title. However, it seems that Volkanovski is willing to make an exception in this case.

This is likely due to the fact that the winner of Topuria vs Holloway may not be ready for a quick turnaround. Holloway has a history of injuries, and it is possible that he will need some time to recover after his fight with Topuria. Additionally, Holloway has spoken about moving up to lightweight after UFC 308. If Holloway does move up in weight, then it would create an opening for an interim title fight at featherweight.

Ultimately, it will be up to the UFC to decide whether or not to offer Volkanovski an interim title fight. However, it seems that Volkanovski is open to the idea, and it would be a great fight for the fans.