Volkanovski Open To Gaethje Lightweight Title Shot

UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski (28-4) has signalled openness to a third attempt at becoming a two-division champion, saying he would accept a UFC lightweight title fight against Justin Gaethje (28-5) if the opportunity were offered — while acknowledging Arman Tsarukyan (23-3) deserves the next shot.

Volk was careful to stress he would not call for the fight until he had earned it, pointing to how he handled his previous lightweight pursuits against Islam Makhachev where he lost both times before returning to featherweight and reclaiming his title with a win over Diego Lopes at UFC 325 in January.

Volkanovski noted that Tsarukyan has not always been the most cooperative with UFC matchmaking, referencing his decision to skip backup duties at UFC Freedom 250 in favor of competing at RAF 10 against Tony Ferguson. Despite that, Volkanovski said the contender’s record merits first consideration at 155, though following his upset win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, Gaethje said it’s unlikely he fights again this year.

“I’m not going to call for it. That’s the type of champion I am. I think you need to earn it, but if the UFC wants to offer it? Of course. See two 38-year-old fellas go at it in the lightweight division. 100 percent. Of course I would. Arman should be next,” Volk