155lbs division includes an exciting crop of fighters like Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier and more with Islam Makhachev as the reigning champion. It seems like 145lbs champion Ilia Topuria is also willing to join the ranks, leaving Alexander Volkanovski’s rematch in the dust. Reacting to the development, Volkanovski’s teammate, Dan Hooker, shared his opinion on the matter.
‘Hangman’ didn’t like Topuria’s plans to abandon the featherweight division, leaving his teammate in a limbo. Volk has wanted his rematch ever since losing the title at UFC 298. ‘El Matador’ has enjoyed a tremendous success at 145lbs, something he intends to replicate at 155lbs. Dan Hooker objected to Topuria’s decision and scolded him for ungentlemanly conduct.
Don’t get in the f***ing cage with him and then agree to fight him d***head…You let him get in the cage , you had a face off with him and you said you’d fight him….You’ve already agreed to a fight, how are you gonna back out of it now?
Dan Hooker via Exclusive Interview for Submission Radio
Not long ago, Topuria teased a move to the lightweight division and also dropped hints of facing former champion Charles Oliveira. This news was later on confirmed by Topuria’s team, who cited weight cutting as a major hindrance for the champion.
The Spanish resident then offered clarification on X, insisting that he was merely on the lookout for a second title. No one in the UFC has ever conquered three weight classes, which ‘El Matador’ aims to achieve in the next three years. After that, he intends to leave the sport forever.
Hooker’s criticism comes off the backs of UFC 308’s events, wherein Volkanovski walked into the Octagon to face off Topuria. Both men shook hands and agreed to fight one more time in 2025. Volkanovski has already showcased intrigue to get on the Sydney card, but the champion wants to defend his title in Spain. However, Volkanvoski isn’t interested in playing the waiting game.
Ilia Topuria update could hamper Alexander Volkanovski’s title aspiration
Volkanovski’s lonesome loss at featherweight came at the hands of Topuria in 2024. Ever since that loss, the former featherweight champion has enjoyed an extended time off. Now, looking back into the state of the weight category, the Aussie fighter only want the title fight. As such, he walked back from his original idea to fight for interim title against Diego Lopes.
Alexander Volkanovski in tough spot following Ilia Topuria’s recent update (Image via MMA Fighting)It looks like that idea has become a thing of the past as Volkanovski is only concerned about taking his belt back. Reacting to the developments, Volk is ready to rematch “El Matador” in 2025, leaving out Lopes from the title picture. Rising star Diego Lopes has enjoyed an amazing run in this past year. He chalked up three big wins that saw taking over #3 rank in the division.
Lopes has showcased interest in fighting both Volkanovski and Topuria. Unfortunately for him, both men have rejected the notion. This leaves the featherweight title picture in a limbo, leaving the UFC brass to make the final judgement call. Dana White, in the UFC Tampa’s presser, dropped hints of booking mega-fights for 2025, which could involve the 145lbs division.
Stay Updated!
Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.
