Recently, Ilia Topuria suggested relinquishing his featherweight title (up to 65,7 kg) and moving to lightweight (up to 70,3 kg), contradicting his previous acceptance of Alexander Volkanovski 's challenge for a rematch in 2025, after knocking out Max Holloway at UFC 308. Dan Hooker , Volkanovski's training partner, considers this just an 'old tactic' to stay relevant.
In an interview with Submission Radio, the New Zealander accused Topuria of copying Conor McGregor 's tactics to stay in the spotlight and believes the fight against Volkanovski will take place in March or April.
See too
“It’s obvious he’s copying McGregor’s style, keeping his name in the news. Topuria doesn’t fight often. I think he’ll fight Volk in March or April. He’s not to be trusted. If you don’t want to fight, don’t get in the cage! He agreed to fight Volk, face to face. He can’t back out now. He’s already accepted the challenge. You can’t say ‘no’ once you accept it. It’s Volk versus Ilia. That’s the next fight,” Hooker said.
Undefeated in his career with 16 wins, six by knockout and eight by submission, Ilia Topuria won the UFC featherweight title against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 308 with a knockout in the second round. The fighter defended the belt against Max Holloway and, since then, has flirted with the idea of changing weight classes and relinquishing the title.
Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.
You need to log in to comment.