Alexander Volkanovski’s illusion of invincibility shattered when his lights got shut in a scrap against “the new generation” leader, Ilia Topuria. The Aussie is since recuperating in his time away from the Octagon. But what will happen when he finally makes his way back? An immediate rematch or does a new challenge loom on the horizon?

This is one of the biggest questions that is bothering most of the fans out there. At just 27 years old, ‘El Matador’ has staked his claim as the top dog at 145lbs. With Volk and Diego Lopes looking for a shot at gold, it will be interesting to see how this situation turns out. While the fight might excite a lot of fans, UFC veteran Chael Sonnen doesn’t quite like the idea.

Chael Sonnen shares his honest opinion on Topuria vs. Volkanovski rematch

Ever since his outing against Ilia Topuria at UFC 298, Alexander Volkanovski has taken some time away from the sport to focus on recovery. But it now seems that he’s set for another title opportunity, as was hinted during the UFC 308 event. Topuria shared a warm embrace with Volkanovski in the Octagon, signaling a readiness to meet him once again in a title showdown.

Yet, this potential rematch raises questions about where it leaves rising Brazilian fighter Diego Lopes. The Brazilian remains undefeated in his UFC career, putting in a strong case for a title shot. Fan-favorite analyst and former UFC fighter Chael Sonnen recently shared his thoughts on his YouTube channel, voicing concerns about the impact of a Volkanovski-Topuria rematch on the division. Sonnen believes it would be a step backward and unfair to Lopes, potentially stalling the Brazilian’s deserved shot at the title.

Sonnen said, “It’s going to be Volkanovski for multiple reasons. He says he was told. To support the notion that he was told in a conversation that we did here. He’s in the front row. They’ve done a cameo and they brought him in the ring for a face-off with Topuria. You can’t put the toothpaste back in that tube all right. It’s going to be Volkanovski.”

Sonnen further pointed out that Topuria put down Volk convincingly and a rematch against him doesn’t make any sense. He said, “He shut the book on the 145 lb division and put on both behind him. When you do that to bring Volk in is not appropriate. You’re forcing an era and you’re forcing nostalgia. When we’ve got to let the story tell itself.” 

Currently, there is no announcement of the fight as of yet and the fans are waiting to see them in action. However, this is not the only option which is available to the UFC at the moment. According to Sonnen, the fans might have to wait just a bit longer to witness these two in action once again.

Chael Sonnen gives an update about a possible interim title fight at 145lbs

The featherweight division is stacked with exceptional fighters eager for a shot at the title. But Chael Sonnen believes he already has the inside scoop on what might happen next. According to ‘The Bad Guy’, there are discussions underway about an interim title fight set in Australia, potentially featuring Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes.

Sonnen explained, “Now we’re hearing rumors about an interim champion. They’re talking about bringing [Volkanovski and Lopes] together, possibly in Australia. The story goes that they’d remove Ilia Topuria from the picture, even though he’s healthy. He’s not sick, he’s not injured.”

This shift in plans stems from Topuria’s expressed interest in defending his title on his home turf in Spain. However, recent restrictions from Barcelona’s city council barring UFC events could complicate those plans. The featherweight division now finds itself in flux, with multiple fighters ready to contend for the belt. Ultimately, it’s up to Dana White to decide who gets the call to compete for the gold.

Who do you think Ilia Topuria will face in his next title defense? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!