Volkanovski Wants Gaethje Title Fight Before Retirement

Alexander Volkanovski has revealed that a showdown with Justin Gaethje for the UFC lightweight championship could be the perfect way to end his professional fighting career. The Australian made the announcement after defeating Movsar Evloev by second-round technical knockout at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi, successfully defending his featherweight title.

Speaking at the post-fight press conference, Volkanovski explained that he would be willing to retire regardless of the outcome if he received the opportunity to challenge Gaethje for the lightweight belt. He also offered to vacate his titles following the fight, allowing both divisions to move forward without being held up by his pursuit of a second championship.

The Australian described the potential matchup as an ideal conclusion to his career, although he stressed that he would continue competing if the opportunity failed to materialise. Volkanovski also acknowledged that other contenders deserved their chances and said he did not want his ambitions to prevent them from fighting for championship gold.

Another possible opponent is Arman Tsarukyan, should Gaethje decide to retire and relinquish the lightweight title. Volkanovski has previously attempted to become a two-division champion, suffering two defeats to Islam Makhachev in 2023. A potential clash with Gaethje would therefore offer him another opportunity to achieve that ambition while providing a dramatic finish to his career.