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Alexander Volkanovski came within inches of scoring double champion status earlier this year, losing a close decision to Islam Makhachev at UFC 284. Had the Aussie been victorious, he would’ve been following in Conor McGregor’s path to greatness, as “The Notorious” also captured the Featherweight belt before jumping to 155 lbs.
Unlike McGregor, Volkanovski remains intent on defending his Featherweight crown, as he’s returning to 145-pounds to face interim kingpin Yair Rodriguez. However, Volkanovski has twice been a topic in McGregor’s return to action conversation, and he’s not about to let that potential challenge go unanswered.
For one, Volkanovski took issue with McGregor’s challenge of his pound-for-pound status, pointing out that he’s fought in more weight classes than the knockout artist.
Yeah you say it, but I did it. I’ve fought at Middleweight, Welterweight, lightweight and Featherweight. https://t.co/VYSmGxfHaS
— Alex Volkanovski (@alexvolkanovski) May 30, 2023
In addition, Volkanovski answered back, “Let’s do it at Lightweight!” He also responded, “Anytime. Anywhere. Any weight!”
With McGregor fully in fridge mode, could this be the match up needed to return 5’6” Volkanovski to the Welterweight division? The Australian began his career at 170 lbs., but an early knockout loss convinced him to shed some additional weight and embark on a massive win streak. As for McGregor, the current plan is for him to face Michael Chandler … at some point … at some weight class. Afterward, however, perhaps a fight with Volkanovski could materialize if “Notorious” really intends to stay active this time around.
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This story originally appeared on MMA Mania
