The return of a legendary fighter to the UFC: “I don’t think anyone can beat me...”

Alexander Volkanovski is nearing the end of his training camp as he prepares to return to a title fight after being dethroned by Ilia Topuria more than a year ago. After suffering two consecutive KO losses, the Australian decided to take a sabbatical to recover both physically and mentally until a title opportunity emerged in the featherweight division.

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At the start of 2025, Ilia Topuria vacated the belt after a 12-month reign. This opened the door for the two top contenders of the moment: Diego Lopes and Volkanovski. Both, focused on claiming the featherweight throne, are set to face off in a title fight at UFC 314 in April, a matchup that is already generating buzz.

This past Tuesday, Volkanovski did a brief interview on Main Event TV ahead of his fight on April 12, where he showed his confidence in himself: “I don’t think anyone can beat me. The only one I see giving me a fight for five rounds is Islam Makhachev,” said the Australian, ignoring Ilia Topuria, and somehow justifying it with his next statement: “The rest only have a chance with a lucky shot.”

Volkanovski’s uncertainty

There is some debate about the level of performance the Australian will offer upon his return. Many believe that his losses to Makhachev and Topuria were due to facing two absolute legends in MMA history, while others think the former champion has suffered a physical and performance decline due to his age.

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The fight against the rising Diego Lopes, who is presumably of a lower level than Topuria and Makhachev, will set a new benchmark for Volkanovski. The main event of the show, which will take place in Miami, is, as of now, a difficult fight to analyze given the Australian’s long absence.