Alexander Volkanovski did it again at UFC 333, dominating a much younger contender in Movsar Evloev for the seventh defense of his featherweight title in two reigns. (see highlights here).
After two tough losses to Islam Makhachov and a brutal KO of Ilia Topuria, there were many questions as to whether Volk was done. This latest featherweight title run has answered those questions once and for all.
Now the question is, what does the 38-year-old Volkanovski have left to prove? The UFC has already thrown popular fighter Diego Lopes at him twice, and now the technical wrestler Evloev fell to “The Big One” in two rounds. Does anyone doubt that he could do the same with Jean Silva and Lerone Murphy? These fights feel the same as another Lopes fight.
Seeing Volkanovski continue to dominate the featherweight division would be impressive. So few fighters are content to stay in their lane and defend their belts as long as possible. But looking at Volk’s age rather than talent, it’s less satisfying than seeing him hang up the gloves without the typical two-three losses at the end of his resume.
The only other intriguing option is another lightweight move to capture the 155-pound belt. No shame how Volk couldn’t win the title when Islam Makhachov was the champion. Going up against Justin Gaethje again would be something to watch. Or if Gaethje retires, a fight with Arman Tsarukyan or Ilia Topuria would also be exciting.
With this last dominant win, Volkanovski has some good opportunities ahead of him. It really depends on what the UFC is willing to do with him. True greatness has already been achieved. Double champion status is the only thing we think deserves the time and effort Volk clearly puts into every training camp. Otherwise, there would be better victories than Evloev’s if they left on a high note.
