On April 12, 2025, at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Alexander Volkanovski made a significant mark in UFC history by reclaiming the featherweight title. The 36-year-old Australian overcame a fierce challenge from Diego Lopes in a highly anticipated main event, breaking long-standing superstitions surrounding fighters over 35 and the so-called Drake curse. Volkanovski’s victory was more than a championship win; it symbolized his resilience after a career-defining loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298, where he had hoped to defend his title for a sixth consecutive time.
The Drake curse, a popular but unfounded belief that athletes sponsored by rapper Drake tend to lose, added a peculiar layer of narrative to the fight. Despite Drake’s vocal support during fight week, Volkanovski managed to shake off these superstitions and emerge victorious, rewriting the storyline in his favor and setting the stage for his leadership in the featherweight division once again.
Ilia Topuria’s move to lightweight reshapes the featherweight division
Earlier in 2025, Ilia Topuria vacated the featherweight title to pursue challenges in the lightweight category, aiming to become a two-division UFC champion. This decision opened the door for Volkanovski and Diego Lopes to contest the vacant featherweight crown at UFC 314. Both fighters showcased remarkable skill and determination, but Volkanovski’s championship experience and strategic composure ultimately secured the belt after five grueling rounds. The judges awarded him the win, further solidifying his claim as one of the greatest featherweights in UFC history.
Still, despite this triumph, Volkanovski revealed an unexpected emotional response. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, he admitted a surprising lack of attachment to reclaiming the belt, highlighting a complex emotional state not typically associated with championship victories.
“But I literally won that belt… I love all that stuff about climbing that mountain, going through the adversity, being able to bounce back—all that stuff. Did not care one bit about being champ again or anything like that. It was weird. It’s a good thing, though, ’cause I don’t tie myself so much to the belt and being champion and all that.” —Alexander Volkanovski
Volkanovski reflects on the emotional complexities of reclaiming the title
Volkanovski’s comments suggest that his journey is evolving beyond the usual desire for titles and recognition. The mental and emotional toll of fighting at the sport’s highest level, particularly following a defeat like the one imposed by Topuria, seems to have reshaped his perspective on what it means to be a champion. Winning the belt again did not stir the excitement many expected; instead, it exposed a deeper, more reflective mindset.
This introspection raises new questions about Volkanovski’s future trajectory in the featherweight division, as he contemplates what legacy truly means beyond accolades and record books. Whether this signals a shift in his motivation or an evolving relationship with the sport remains to be seen.
Potential opponents and future challenges for Volkanovski
Following his title reclamation, Volkanovski initially expressed interest in facing the undefeated contender Movsar Evloev. However, recent reports indicate that the UFC might be steering him towards a rematch with Yair Rodriguez instead. Rodriguez, who has experienced mixed results in recent bouts, could provide a thrilling contest if matched against the Australian champion.
Regardless of the opponent, Volkanovski faces the challenge of proving himself against top-tier contenders who could reshape the narrative around the featherweight belt. His ability to maintain dominance will play a critical role in his ongoing debate for the title of the greatest featherweight ever, a conversation currently also dominated by José Aldo’s enduring legacy.
Volkanovski offers insight on Topuria’s upcoming bout against Oliveira
UFC 317, scheduled for June 28 at the T-Mobile Arena during UFC International Fight Week 2025, promises a marquee matchup with Ilia Topuria taking on the former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira. The bout has drawn anticipation as Topuria aims to capture gold in a second weight class, facing Oliveira’s veteran experience and elite Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills.
Volkanovski, familiar with Topuria’s knockout power after losing his featherweight reign to him at UFC 298, shared his predictions ahead of the clash. He emphasized Topuria’s striking capabilities and movement, suggesting an early conclusion to the fight in favor of Topuria.
“I’m going to Ilia,” Alexander Volkanovski said. “I think Ilia’s going to get the win. I think Ilia can catch him. I reckon early knockout – early knockout for Ilia Topuria. … He doesn’t just come forward and just stand in your face. He has a lot of movement. You see him slipping and slipping and trying to find his way in.” —Alexander Volkanovski
The enduring debate over the greatest featherweight in UFC history
While Volkanovski’s achievements speak volumes, the shadow of José Aldo, who holds the record for most consecutive featherweight title defenses across the WEC and UFC, still looms large. Volkanovski has matched Aldo by capturing the featherweight championship six times across two separate reigns. Continuing to defend the title against elite contenders like Evloev or Rodriguez could further cement his place in the GOAT conversation.
This ongoing rivalry in records and impact fuels passionate discussions among fans and experts alike. Volkanovski’s resilience, ability to return to the top after significant setbacks, and strategic fighting style illustrate a new era of strength and depth in the featherweight division. His story now extends beyond victories, embracing the complexities of legacy, motivation, and the pursuit of greatness in mixed martial arts.
What lies ahead for the featherweight division and its stars
As the UFC prepares for the headline event of UFC 317 and the anticipated clash between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira, fans worldwide eagerly await how the featherweight division will evolve. Topuria’s attempt to claim a second divisional title adds high stakes, while Volkanovski’s potential upcoming matchups will test his claim to the throne once more.
With intense rivalries and emerging talent continuing to define this class, the landscape remains dynamic and compelling. Each fight not only shapes individual careers but also the historical narrative of the division as a whole, promising fans fierce battles and unforgettable moments in the months ahead.