Volkanovski Welcomes Tsarukyan's Potential Move to 145 Pounds: 'I Love Challenges'

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UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has responded positively to lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan's interest in dropping down to 145 pounds to challenge for the title. Volkanovski praised Tsarukyan's well-rounded skill set, particularly his wrestling, and expressed confidence in his own takedown defense to handle the matchup. The potential fight raises questions about divisional boundaries and legacy opportunities, though Volkanovski acknowledged Tsarukyan's significant weight cut as the biggest variable in making the fight a reality.

Why it matters

This potential superfight between two of the division's most well-rounded fighters would generate significant interest among MMA fans and could have major implications for the featherweight title picture. Volkanovski's openness to the challenge demonstrates his willingness to take on all comers, while Tsarukyan's interest in moving down a weight class shows his ambition to become a champion.

The details

Volkanovski stated that he 'loves challenges' and believes his solid takedown defense would make for a 'fun' matchup against Tsarukyan, who has built a reputation as one of the strongest grapplers in the lightweight division. The Armenian fighter's recent performances have placed him firmly in the 155-pound title conversation, but the idea of a move down to featherweight has sparked intrigue. Volkanovski himself is no stranger to the challenges of rapid weight cuts, revealing that he can lose 7-8 kg (15-18 lbs) in fight week, which he says is the hardest part of preparing for a fight.

• Volkanovski is set to defend his featherweight title against Diego Lopes at UFC 325.

What they’re saying

What’s next

No official plans have been announced for a potential matchup between Volkanovski and Tsarukyan, but the exchange has added fuel to ongoing discussions about future title fights at 145 pounds.