Volkanovski Pitches One Last Blockbuster Fight
UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has his sights set on a potential superfight with Justin Gaethje, proposing a championship showdown that could serve as a final chapter for both fighters.
Volkanovski recently discussed the idea on the Who The Fook Are These Guys? podcast, explaining that he would welcome a move up to lightweight to challenge Gaethje for the 155-pound title. The Australian even suggested that both fighters could retire after the matchup, creating a high-profile send off for two of the sport’s biggest names.
“Let’s do a superfight, lightweight title on the line and then we can both retire,” Volkanovski said, outlining his vision for the potential bout.
The proposal would give Volkanovski another opportunity to capture championship gold in a second weight class while offering Gaethje a major matchup if he decides to continue fighting.
A Difficult Challenge Comes First
Before Volkanovski can seriously pursue the lightweight champion, he must handle an important featherweight title defense.
The 38-year-old is scheduled to face undefeated contender Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 on October 24 in Abu Dhabi. Evloev enters the matchup with an unblemished professional record, making him a significant challenge for Volkanovski as he looks to retain his championship.
Volkanovski has already competed for the lightweight title twice against Islam Makhachev in 2023, losing both contests. A potential matchup with Gaethje would provide another chance to test himself against elite competition at 155 pounds.
Gaethje’s Future Remains Uncertain
Gaethje presents an intriguing opponent because of his aggressive fighting style and championship experience. The American captured the lightweight title by defeating Ilia Topuria at the UFC’s White House event in June, but he has since expressed uncertainty about how much longer he wants to compete.
That uncertainty is part of what makes Volkanovski’s proposal interesting. Rather than pursuing a traditional title defense or another rematch, the Australian is suggesting a major attraction that could give both fighters one final defining moment.
However, Gaethje has not agreed to the matchup, and the UFC has not announced any plans to book it.
Could This Be a Dream Matchup?
A Volkanovski-Gaethje superfight would bring together two accomplished champions with contrasting styles. Volkanovski is known for his movement, tactical striking and ability to adjust during fights, while Gaethje has built his reputation on pressure, power and relentless exchanges.
For now, Volkanovski must focus on Evloev before any potential lightweight move becomes realistic. But his callout has already introduced an intriguing possibility for the UFC’s future.
If both fighters remain interested, a lightweight title superfight could become one of the sport’s biggest events in 2027. For Volkanovski, it would be a chance to chase another championship. For Gaethje, it could offer a memorable final challenge before deciding what comes next.
