The UFC featherweight division, despite its current strength, appears to be at a standstill regarding progression. Earlier this year, Alexander Volkanovski recaptured the featherweight title by defeating Diego Lopes in the main event of UFC 314, following Ilia Topuria`s surprising vacation of the belt.
Since then, the Australian champion has expressed his desire to defend his title against the deserving long-term contender, Movsar Evloev. However, after Evloev withdrew from a July bout against Aaron Pico, the Russian has been sidelined from championship discussions. Despite this, Pico went on to make his UFC debut against Lerone Murphy at UFC 319, where the undefeated Englishman delivered what many consider a Knockout of the Year.
Volkanovski Possibly Headed for an Unsolicited Rematch
Following Lerone Murphy`s emphatic victory – undoubtedly the most significant of his career – Volkanovski publicly called for his next title defense to be against Murphy. UFC President Dana White also seemed to support this idea, hinting that Murphy was next in line for a shot at the strap.
However, in September, Diego Lopes faced surging contender Jean Silva in the Noche UFC main event, securing a spectacular second-round knockout to bounce back into the win column. While it initially seemed Lopes would need another victory before earning another crack at Volkanovski, recent social media activity suggests that Volkanovski might be headed for an immediate rematch with Lopes.
Last Thursday, the fan-favorite champion posted an image on Instagram with the caption: “🙂😏⏳.” Subsequently, Murphy tweeted: “Some of us take the stairs, some take the elevator. Either way, same destination.” When a fan commented, expecting Murphy to get the next title shot in February, Murphy responded, “Me too but it will come in due time.”
Does Diego Lopes Deserve the Next Title Shot?
The possibility of Lopes receiving an almost immediate title rematch, especially given his initial fight with Volkanovski, has been met with skepticism by a significant portion of the UFC fanbase. That said, Lopes is undeniably a more popular fighter than the English contender, and the promotion might once again be looking to capitalize on his appeal.
The UFC is scheduled to return to Sydney on February 9 next year, and it`s highly probable that Volkanovski, who has expressed a wish to fight in his home country, will headline the event.