Mark Hunt, Robert Whittaker, Alexander Volkanvoski, and Israel Adesanya have all headlined major UFC events in Australia and the Oceanic region. This year, Perth hosted the UFC 305 PPV in August. Recent reports suggest the MMA giant is ready to return to Australia early in 2025 with UFC 312 in Sydney. One important name from the Australian MMA scene wants to make his return.
The last time Sydney got the chance to host a UFC card was in 2023. Betting favorite Israel Adesnaya lost humiliatingly against Sean Strickland at UFC 293. After a year’s absence, it appears the UFC will return to Sydney in early 2025. Currently, there are no champions in the UFC from the oceanic territory, and it is something Alexander Volkanovski can change.
If there’s injuries or something, I think an interim could be something that might fit. Max, if he were to win, he obviously has the BMF belt as well, so if he moves up to lightweight, which would mean an interim. So, you know? We have had these conversations, again I am really going to push for that.
Alexander Volkanovski via Submission Radio
Alexander Volkanovski would return from a long layoff after losing his title to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. His return in February 2025 would mark a year-long absence after a brutal KO loss. The Australian fighter has racked up two KO losses in a row, which became a cause for concern. Returning from the much-needed break, Volk has clarified that he only wants to fight for the title next.
The featherweight gold is up for grabs in the coming weeks, with Ilia Topuria taking on Max Holloway. If Topuria comes out victorious and injury-free, it could open the gates for a rematch for Volk. But, if Holloway turns the tide against the Spaniard, a quadrilogy isn’t out of the question. However, the Australian fighter also showcased an interest in fighting a surging name in the 145lbs division.
Diego Lopes responds to Alexander Volkanovski’s call for clash at UFC 312
The young up and comer, Diego Lopes, has definitely made his mark in the UFC in the past years. The Brazilian fighter made his debut against Movsar Evloev in a short-notice bout that he ended up losing. Despite the loss, he put on a valiant performance against the unbeaten grappler that turned him into a fan favorite.
17 months later, his impressive win over Brian Ortega at UFC Noche makes it five in a row. Lopes is on the cusp of a title shot, and a fight with the former champion seems to be on the cards. It seems like the 29-year-old is on board with Volk’s idea of fighting at UFC 312.
Responding to the announcement of UFC’s return to Sydney, the number 3 ranked featherweight has seemingly accepted the call-out by dropping his name in the hat. Moreover, the rising Brazilian fighter will back up Topuria or Holloway if either of them pulls out of UFC 308.
UFC legend and Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen doesn’t feel Volk will have a good chance against young fighters in the UFC. Now it seems like Volk is ready to roll out the carpet for the rising featherweight, who he previously snubbed in favor of bigger match-ups.
