Alexander Volkanovski (Image Credits: Imagn)

Alexander Volkanovski Shuts Down Retirement Talk, Eyes Undefeated Contenders at UFC 325

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Pavan Sharma | Last updated Feb 1, 2026 7:55 AM ET

Everyone wanted Alexander Volkanovski to retire even before UFC 325. But he put on a prime Volkanovski performance against Diego Lopes at 37, dominating rounds with his pressure. He showed an elite ground game and striking, and all commentators praised him during the fight.

Now, many are questioning what’s next for the featherweight legend and whether he will retire or not. Meanwhile, ‘The Great’ himself has shut down all the retirement talk and called out undefeated featherweight title contenders for his next fight. Talking with Daniel Cormier during the post-fight octagon interview, Volkanovski said:

“Movsar, Lerone… whoever’s next is next!”

“Movsar, Lerone… whoever’s next is next!”
Alexander Volkanovski is ready to face undefeated Movsar Evloev or Lerone Murphy #UFC325 pic.twitter.com/wyVKxhdKlA
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 1, 2026

With such a dominant performance at UFC 325, Volkanovski is ready to face undefeated Movsar Evloev or Lerone Murphy. These two are among the most skilled fighters in the featherweight division and could give serious trouble to the champion.

Alexander Volkanovski Doesn’t Want Undeserving Champions Next

Alexander Volkanovski (Image Credits: Imagn)

Everyone said Diego Lopes did not deserve the title shot. Meanwhile, Alexander Volkanovski has now made it clear that he doesn’t want undeserving fighters jumping the line for a title opportunity. During his post-fight interview, the 37-year-old said:

“I’ve got a responsibility as a champion. I don’t think enough champions look at it that way. There are rankings for a reason. If I’m just going to keep letting other people cut the line, I’m not really doing my part.”

Alexander Volkanovski doesn’t want undeserving fighters jumping the line for a title shot #UFC325

"I've got a responsibility as a champion. I don't think enough champions look at it that way. There are rankings for a reason. If I'm just going to keep letting other people cut the… pic.twitter.com/zF0eioJRcH
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 1, 2026

Murphy has elite striking, and Evloev has Dagestani wrestling, which could be a tough challenge for Volkanovski. The featherweight legend is now tied with Jose Aldo’s title-defense record, and his next fight will be crucial if he wants to break it.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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