UFC Analyst Cited Ilia Topuria Moving Up In Weight As A ‘Blessing’ For Alexander Volkanovski

A UFC analyst sees Ilia Topuria moving up in weight as a “blessing” for Alexander Volkanovski, stirring debate among MMA fans

Ilia Topuria and Alexander Volkanovski

Ilia Topuria relinquishing his featherweight title after just a solitary title defense seems to be a bit odd. While the fans were eagerly waiting for a possible rematch fight against Alexander Volkanovski, things are now looking quite different at the moment. With Ilia Topuria out of the picture, it will now be Diego Lopes who will challenge ‘Volk’ next. Now, according to UFC analyst Michael Bisping, this could be a blessing in disguise for Volkanovski.

After all, not having to fight Topuria can turn out to be beneficial for the former champion. Detailing his reasons, Bisping opined that Volkanovski is now aging. And to handle a vicious striker like Topuria might not have been the best case scenario for him.

Bisping opined, “I’m not saying that he couldn’t beat him because every single fight is different and of course in the first one, he was coming off the back of that vicious knockout to Islam Makhachev. This time it’s different. He’s 36 years old now, nevermind 35, nevermind that curse, he’s 36. He’s no spring chicken. He’s not getting any younger.”

The former UFC athlete also stated that Ilia Topuria’s move up to lightweight was not a smart decision. Meanwhile, after the news of Topuria vacating the featherweight title spread, Dana White was held responsible. However, the UFC head honcho immediately stepped in to clear the air.

Dana White Denies Forcing Ilia Topuria To Vacate Title

After Dana White conveyed Topuria’s decision, UFC fans speculated all kinds of things. Diego Lopes added fuel to the fire. He mentioned how the UFC has asked all the champions to vacate their belts if they have to move up in weight. But that is not the case, as it turns out. In a recent presser, Dana White addressed the issue.

“He did that. I’ve done everything I can do here. I’m ready to move up, and he vacated it. He said, ‘I shouldn’t be holding up anybody’s opportunities.’ I always respect when guys do that,” said White.

Thus, with new challenges coming up for Ilia Topuria, it now remains to be seen what happens next.