The frustration of waiting has pushed Tsarukyan to consider alternative options for staying active and relevant. He’s competed in Real American Freestyle wrestling matches to keep busy between UFC bookings. He even had a post-fight brawl with Gerogio Poullas at RAF 6 that generated massive attention. Now, Tsarukyan is teasing a potential move, but is asking fans whether that would be what they want. 

Arman Tsarukyan Offers To Save The Featherweight Division

Arman Tsarukyan (23-3) watched UFC London’s main event Saturday night like millions of other MMA fans worldwide. Movsar Evloev faced Lerone Murphy in a crucial featherweight contender bout with title shot implications. Both fighters entered undefeated with lengthy win streaks and legitimate claims to challenge Volkanovski next. The fight went the distance with Evloev winning via majority decision in a closely contested battle.

After watching that main event unfold, Tsarukyan took to social media with a provocative question for fans. He posted on Threads asking whether it’s time for him to save the featherweight division entirely. The post suggests Tsarukyan believes neither Evloev nor Murphy presents a compelling challenge to the dominant champion. He sees an opening to insert himself into the featherweight title picture instead.

“UFC fans, is it time for me to save the featherweight division?”

Tsarukyan also tweeted that he’s “next” following Evloev’s victory over Murphy on Saturday night. That bold declaration indicates he might be serious about making the move down to 145 pounds. The Armenian fighter has consistently stated his body can handle the weight cut without major issues. More importantly, he’s claimed the move wouldn’t be temporary for just one fight if he drops down.

The timing makes sense from Tsarukyan’s perspective given the lightweight title situation remains stuck in limbo. Topuria and Gaethje won’t unify the belts until June 14th at the UFC White House card. The winner will need recovery time before defending against the next challenger in line. That means Tsarukyan could be waiting until late 2026 or even early 2027 for his lightweight title opportunity.

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The Featherweight Move Makes Competitive Sense

Arman Tsarukyan’s potential drop to featherweight presents interesting stylistic problems for Alexander Volkanovski specifically. The Armenian possesses elite wrestling credentials that could trouble the champion’s defensive grappling. Volkanovski has stuffed countless takedowns during his title reign, but Tsarukyan’s pressure and chain wrestling might overwhelm him. Khabib Nurmagomedov recently predicted Tsarukyan would have an 80-20 advantage over Topuria based purely on wrestling ability.

That same wrestling advantage would apply against Volkanovski, who’s primarily a striker with solid defensive wrestling fundamentals. Tsarukyan combines his grappling with improving striking that’s become more dangerous over recent fights. The combination of wrestling threat and striking power makes Tsarukyan a nightmare matchup.

Volkanovski has acknowledged the potential challenge publicly, stating he loves facing tough opponents regardless of weight class. The champion mentioned Tsarukyan specifically when asked about potential featherweight challengers recently. He admitted the Armenian would present a difficult test if he successfully makes the weight cut. But Volkanovski also pointed to other deserving contenders like Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy.

Dana White hasn’t made any official announcements about Volkanovski’s next title defense following UFC London’s main event. Evloev called for a title shot immediately after defeating Murphy on Saturday night. However, his majority decision victory wasn’t dominant enough to guarantee anything from the UFC president. White could easily book Volkanovski against Tsarukyan instead if the Armenian commits to featherweight.

(Image Credit: ESPN)

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In the initial rounds, both fighters kept the fight on their feet, and Murphy got his opportunity to land clean strikes. The UK fighter was looking forward to maintaining the same momentum; however, the fight became increasingly competitive. 

In the later rounds, Movsar Evloev became more dominant with his pressure and effective mixing of wrestling and grappling. He secured takedowns and maintained top control and ultimately outworked Murphy.

For Evloev, it was his 20th career win, and the Russian fighter is undefeated, making him the ideal candidate for the best title shot. “UFC, there is no excuse to don’t let me fight for the title. I have nothing to say,” said Movsar Evloev via UFC Octagon interview. 

Evloev jockingly mentioned that the champion Alexander Volkanovski has been waiting for him for a long time and is getting old. The fighter is ready to make a quick comeback in May in order to fight the Australian champion as soon as possible.

“This old man still has some tricks left. Bring it on,” Volk responded hilariously while accepting the title fight. UFC CEO Dana White still hasn’t confirmed this fight, but he will be making a decision soon.

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Beating Movsar Evloev can be a big retribution for Alexander Volkanovski 

Alexander Volkanovski is regarded as the GOAT of the UFC featherweight division and has fought and defeated some of the biggest names. However, the fighter has failed twice to move up and get the double champion status against Islam Makhachev.

The first fight was close, and Volkanovski was able to defend the Dagestani’s wrestling but got knocked out in the second fight. According to the champ, beating Movsar Evloev will be a good addition to his legacy in reference to his previous loss to a Russian.

“Dagestani and Chechen wrestling have been so effective. A lot of fighters don’t know how to deal with it. You’ve seen my fight with Islam, I could deal with that. I would love to get [Evloev] and take out this style,” said Alexander Volkanovski via his YouTube channel. 

Volkanovski was impressed by Evloev’s performance against Lerone Murphy and likes the idea of fighting an undefeated challenger. It will be interesting to see whether the new contender can break Volk’s new ongoing winning streak. 

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Recently, Tsarukyan revealed his thoughts on the featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. The things he said has infuriated some fans while others seem shocked at his take. 

Arman Tsarukyan Plans Alexander Volkanovski’s Future!

The Armenian fighter responded to a fan tweet during an Aviator interview that suggested “Cooking with Volk vs. Eating with Arman.” Most people would laugh off that comment as a harmless meme. But Tsarukyan took it seriously and built an entire scenario around beating Alexander Volkanovski and then hiring him afterward. The confidence required to plan someone’s retirement and career change is absolutely wild.

“I’ll beat Volk, and then I’ll hire him as my chef because when I beat him, he’s going to retire, and he’ll have to do something – and I can pay him good money.”

Volkanovski launched his “Cooking with Volk” series last year showcasing recipes and meals outside training. The Australian featherweight champion genuinely enjoys cooking and shares that passion with fans regularly. Tsarukyan has built a reputation as one of the UFC’s biggest foodies with social media content documenting his eating adventures constantly.

Tsarukyan’s comments might sound like pure trash talk without any substance behind them. But there’s actual context that makes this potential matchup somewhat realistic down the road. The lightweight title picture currently sits in limbo with Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje scheduled to unify the belt. 

Arman Tsarukyan recently hinted he might drop down to featherweight rather than wait months for a lightweight title shot. He stated in interviews that his body could handle the weight cut to 145 pounds without major issues. More importantly, he claimed the move wouldn’t be temporary for just one fight. According to Tsarukyan, he would stay at featherweight for multiple bouts if he made the jump. That commitment makes a potential clash with Volkanovski actually possible instead of just fantasy matchmaking talk.

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Alexander Volkanovski Isn’t Retiring Anytime Soon

Many fans believed Alexander Volkanovski (28-4) might retire after UFC 325 earlier this year. The Australian had suffered back-to-back knockout losses to Ilia Topuria previously. Those brutal defeats raised questions about his chin and future at the highest level. Some thought Volkanovski’s best days had passed him by completely.

UFC 325 proved all those doubters completely wrong in spectacular fashion. Volkanovski faced Diego Lopes in a rematch and absolutely dominated from start to finish. He toyed with Lopes throughout the fight, showcasing the technical brilliance that made him champion originally. The one-sided victory reminded everyone why Volkanovski held the featherweight belt for so long. He looked refreshed, motivated, and nowhere near ready for retirement.

For now, fans are not seeing any indication of retirement from ‘The Great.’ Time will tell if that stays as is. Also, whether Tsarukyan gets his personal chef remains to be seen, but the trash talk certainly entertains everyone involved.

(Image Credit: MSN/Code Sports)

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Despite strong motivation, the younger contender struggled as Volkanovski executed a systematic breakdown using movement and precise striking skills. Lopes landed occasional shots during exchanges, but Volkanovski consistently went in and out, controlling range and steadily accumulating points.

After five rounds, the judges again awarded Volkanovski a unanimous decision victory, reaffirming his dominance in the division once more. Following the bout, contenders like Movsar Evloev congratulated Volkanovski while also calling for a future featherweight title clash with him.

“Great fight by @alexvolkanovski, he showed that you can get better at that age. I can’t wait to share a cage to show why I am different than these guys! #ufc325,” Movsar Evloev via X.

Before the bout, many experts criticized the UFC for granting Diego Lopes another title opportunity while overlooking contenders like Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy. However, Alexander Volkanovski has remained vocal about his responsibility as champion, insisting deserving fighters should receive fair title opportunities.

After his victory, Volkanovski revealed he is ready to fight again soon, naming Evloev or Murphy as potential opponents. The veteran also suggested the Russian contender will beat Murphy in a potential title eliminator.

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Alexander Volkanovski shuts down Jean Silva’s beef 

Jean Silva recently sparked tension by calling out Alexander Volkanovski, claiming he deserved a title shot after recent wins and momentum. Silva criticized Volkanovski’s title-shot philosophy, suggesting the champion avoids fresh challengers and only prefers contenders with safer, stylistically favorable matchups.

“You’re a legend, brother, but I’m coming for everything. If you want to stay without getting hurt, I understand, but if you want to fight a guy who hits hard, I’m your guy. I’m telling you one more thing. I’m going to camp with [Ilia] Topuria to break you. I’m warning you, I’ll go there,” said Jean Silva.

Volkanovski dismissed the claims, saying Jean Silva hasn’t earned contention yet, stressing that rankings matter and champions must defend against proven opponents. He also mentioned that Silva must be upset about his teammate Muricio Ruffy training with Volk for UFC 325. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see who finally gets the title shot between the new featherweight contenders.

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Both Volkanovski and  Lopes step in brimming with belief, knowing that a statement win here defines legacies. Volkanovski brings championship composure, elite fight IQ, and proven five-round experience, while Lopes arrives with hunger and a finishing threat that has electrified fans.

With contrasting styles and enormous stakes, this main event promises tactical brilliance and explosive moments. Ahead of fight night, the question remains: which of these two elite featherweights holds the clearer path to victory when it matters most?

Alexander Volkanovski

Alexander Volkanovski has long been celebrated as one of the greatest featherweights in UFC history. During his previous reign, Volkanovski stacked multiple title defenses against the division’s best, earning respect as a dominant and disciplined champion. That aura of invincibility was shaken when he suffered a shocking knockout loss to Ilia Topuria. 

However, at 36 years old, Volkanovski defied expectations, regrouped mentally and physically, and bounced back in emphatic fashion. He beat Diego Lopes and captured the belt once again, and plans to keep it longer and defend it a couple of more times. 

Diego Lopes

Diego Lopes is one of most fast-rising featherweight contenders recognized for his explosive finishing ability and fearless style. Lopes has rapidly captured fan attention with his dynamic submission game, sharp striking, and constant willingness to hunt the finish, making every appearance must-watch television.

Still carving his place among the division’s elite, Lopes embodies the new wave of featherweights eager to dethrone established champions. In his first bout against Volk, the Brazilian fighter looked helpless and made several mistakes, which cost him the bout. However, going into the rematch, Lopes is calm and wants to win the belt and doesn’t care about taking revenge. 

How to watch Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes 

For U.S. viewers, UFC 325 will stream exclusively on Paramount+, continuing its run as the home for all numbered UFC events. The main card begins at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT on Saturday, airing live from Sydney, Australia.

Australian fans can watch the main card live on Sunday at 2 p.m. AEDT, with the prelims starting earlier in the afternoon. UK viewers can follow the action via TNT Sports Box Office or Discovery+, with the main card airing early Sunday morning around 3 a.m. GMT.

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Tale of the Tape

Alexander Volkanovski vs Diego Lopes: Final Prediction

Alexander Volkanovski approaches fights with structure and efficiency, prioritizing control over chaos. He excels at managing range and forcing opponents to fight at his tempo, steadily banking rounds through clean combinations, and positional awareness. 

On the other side, Diego Lopes thrives in disorder, using sudden bursts and aggressive grappling to disrupt rhythm. Lopes is most dangerous when exchanges become messy early, but as the fight settles, Volkanovski’s experience, adaptability, and ability to make mid-fight adjustments should blunt those threats. Over five rounds, that tactical edge and composure give Volkanovski a strong path to winning a disciplined decision.

Final Prediction: Alexander Volkanovski via unanimous decision. 

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The pair last fought each other in 2025 for the vacant title, where the Aussie star beat Lopes via unanimous decision. It was a systematic beatdown that clearly showed the difference between the younger fighter and the veteran that night. Going into the title rematch, many expected Lopes to take revenge after learning from his previous loss on points.

However, according to the Brazilian contender, he simply wants to win the belt and insists it is nothing personal here. “I only want to take the belt. It’s like beat Volk or whoever the guy is that holds the belt,” said Deigo Lopes via UFC 325 Media Day. 

Previously, Diego Lopes receiving an immediate rematch against Alexander Volkanovski sparked criticism from fans and experts questioning the merit and divisional fairness. Many believed top contenders like Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy deserved more opportunities after consistent performances and unbeaten runs recently. Even Volkanovski has agreed that Evloev has not been tested fairly by the UFC top brass and is ready to fight anybody. 

Responding to backlash, UFC CEO Dana White bluntly told critics not to watch the fight if uninterested at all. Nevertheless, following the success of the first UFC Paramount card, UFC 325 carries massive expectations and commercial interest worldwide.

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Alexander Volkanovski talks about his age and upcoming challenges

Alexander Volkanovski is regarded as one of the most dominant and decorated champions in recent mixed martial arts history. He shocked everyone last year by reclaiming the featherweight title, defying odds after setbacks and intense criticism from fans.

Despite being 37 years old, Volkanovski remains a serious threat to top contenders across the stacked featherweight division. The Australian champion has made it clear he has no intentions of retiring anytime soon, but is more cautious about his fights. 

“You need to be calculated, especially at this point in my career. You better be doing it right, because things can go bad if you’re not doing it right at 37 years old. I’m happy to talk about that. I love that pressure. I’m old, but I’m still better than these guys,” said Alexander Volkanovski via ESPN. 

According to Alexander Volkanovski, defeating Diego Lopes for a second time would not significantly add anything meaningful to his already legendary legacy. He further explained his intention to face other top contenders soon while staying as active as possible throughout the remaining years.

READ MORE: UFC 325: Full Fight Card, How To Watch, And Event Details

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This time, the hype is massive, and the Mexican star wants a different result and to get his hands on the featherweight title. With UFC 325, the promotion will return to Australia as it takes place in Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney. 

The event will take place on February 1, and the whole card is stacked from top to bottom, featuring elite contenders and explosive matchups. The Sydney crowd will be cheering for the homegrown champion, Volkanovski; however, Lopes is confident about getting a major upset. 

In a recent interview, the contender talked about getting a massive knockout at UFC 325. “I’m fighting in enemy territory, so I need to finish this fight with a submission or a knockout – that is my goal,” said Diego Lopes via MAINEVENT. 

In the first bout, Lopes avoided takedowns, keeping the fight standing, while Volkanovski calmly executed his disciplined strategy. Meanwhile, the Mexican challenger tried provoking constantly, swinging heavy shots wildly, chasing moments of chaos that never landed cleanly.

Reflecting later, Lopes admitted ego dictated decisions previously, clouding his judgment and composure throughout the entire contest. This time, he’s serious and has established a private gym to sharpen skills and a mindset for redemption.

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Can Alexander Volkanovski become a UFC double champion?

Alexander Volkanovski is widely regarded as one of the most successful fighters in UFC history. He is often labeled the featherweight GOAT, having defended his title multiple times with dominance and elite championship-level performances.

Previously, ‘The Great’ attempted to become a double champion twice but failed both times against former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. The second loss ended brutally, with Volkanovski suffering a knockout, halting his ambitious lightweight dreams on that occasion.

Still, many fans believe his hunger remains, a view recently discussed in detail by top lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett. “I think if I win and he wins, and I get upgraded to undisputed champion, it wouldn’t surprise me if Volki sees that as the perfect opportunity to go and win the lightweight belt,” said Paddy Pimblett via YouTube. 

Paddy Pimblett is currently scheduled to fight Justin Gaethje for the UFC Interim lightweight championship at UFC 324. The UK native plans to beat Gaethje and potentially win the undisputed title by dethroning Ilia Topuria. It would be interesting to see him fighting Alexander Volkanovski if things work out accordingly.

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This event isn’t just another numbered card. It is a carefully crafted collection of matchups spanning multiple weight classes and featuring both established stars and hungry newcomers ready to make their mark.

The Main Event

This void in the featherweight division title picture will be filled when Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes collide in the main event. Volkanovski’s journey back to championship status represents one of MMA’s most compelling narratives. The Australian veteran, known for his exceptional fight IQ and cardio, is determined to reclaim the throne after his shocking knockout loss to Topuria. His technical precision and championship experience make him a formidable challenge for any opponent.

Standing across from him will be Diego Lopes, whose meteoric rise has captivated fans worldwide. The Brazilian has transformed from a short-notice replacement to legitimate title contender through a series of remarkable performances. His willingness to engage and aggressive finishing instinct have earned him a devoted following. His recent fight with Brian Ortega showed his elite striking and distance control.

The Co-Main Event

The co-main event finally delivers the long-awaited showdown between Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett. Chandler is a former Bellator champion. His UFC tenure has been defined by highlight-reel moments and heartbreaking setbacks. He is on a 2 fight losing streak and will look to get in the win column.

Paddy Pimblett brings his own brand of charisma and an evolving skill set to this five-round contest. The Liverpool native has steadily improved with each octagon appearance, silencing critics who questioned his UFC-level credentials. This matchup represents his most significant test to date and an opportunity to vault into the lightweight elite. The contrast in experience and styles makes this co-headliner nearly as anticipated as the main event itself.

UFC 314 Main Card

The remainder of the main card features three compelling contests that could headline Fight Night events on their own merit. Bryce ‘Thug Nasty’ Mitchell, with his unorthodox camo shorts and sophisticated ground game, faces Brazilian striking specialist Jean Silva in what promises to be a classic striker versus grappler affair. Carlos Prates puts his rising star status on the line against the battle-tested Geoff Neal. This is a massive test for the upcoming welterweight as he looks to extend his winning streak. Light heavyweight mainstays Nikita Krylov and Dominick Reyes will square off in a bout with significant divisional implications.

UFC 314 Preliminary Card

The preliminary card, often overlooked by casual viewers, deserves special attention this time around. Leading this portion is a featherweight clash with historic significance. Former UFC interim champion Yair Rodriguez welcomes Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire to the promotion. Pitbull arrives with a legendary resume as Bellator’s most accomplished champion, having dominated multiple divisions for years. His technical striking and submission prowess make him an instant threat in the UFC’s 145-pound division.

Rodriguez, known for his creative striking and acrobatic kicks, represents the perfect welcome party. His recent battles against the division’s elite have showcased both his brilliance and resilience. This matchup combines high-level technique and a promotional crossover. This is essentially delivering a champion versus champion contest on the preliminary card.

The prelims continue with Hawaiian powerhouse Dan Ige testing himself against the technical Sean Woodson. Ige’s power and grappling acumen create an interesting stylistic puzzle against Woodson’s lengthy frame and precise striking. In the women’s strawweight division, former title contender, China’s very own Yan Xiaonan meets Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist Virna Jandiroba in a contest that could determine the next title challenger. Xiaonan’s striking volume and Jandiroba’s submission hunting should create a fascinating technical battle.

Rounding out the prelims, UFC veteran Jim Miller continues his record-setting career against the significantly younger Chase Hooper. Miller’s 40+ UFC appearances represent an unmatched legacy of durability and skill evolution. Hooper’s continued development from prospect to contender makes this an exciting generational clash.

UFC 314 Early Prelims

The early preliminary card offers its own collection of exciting fights. Featherweight veteran Darren Elkins brings his legendary toughness against Julian Erosa in what promises to be a grueling affair. Elkins is known for incredible comebacks and an indomitable spirit. This matches perfectly with Erosa’s creative striking and submission attempts. This opener could set the tone for the entire event.

Rising prospects Alberto Montes and Roberto Romero will attempt to make statements in their featherweight clash. Power puncher Michal Oleksiejczuk meets Sedriques Dumas in a middleweight contest with finish potential. Technical flyweight Mitch Raposo faces the ever dangerous Sumudaerji in a bout that showcases the division’s trademark speed and technique.

The early prelims conclude with two more compelling matchups. TUF alumnus Tresean Gore brings his frightening power against Marco Tulio’s well-rounded skillset. The first fight of the night showcases France’s Nora Cornolle as she tests herself against American Hailey Cowan in women’s bantamweight action.

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