Alexander Volkanovski Returns At UFC 298

Volkanovski will defend the featherweight title on February 17

Following his loss last month to Islam Makhachev at UFC 294, Alexander Volkanovski vowed that he would not take much time off before returning to the cage.

Volkanovski was telling the truth.

Earlier today, UFC CEO Dana White announced that Volkanovski will headline UFC 298 on February 17, defending the featherweight title against Ilia Topuria.

Some Thanksgiving fight announcements. Happy Thanksgiving everybody! pic.twitter.com/wNDkaxQ0nB

— danawhite (@danawhite) November 23, 2023

The fight, which will take place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, suddenly becomes the most significant bout of Volkanovski’s career.

Courtesy Zuffa LLC

Volkanovski (26-3) has dropped two of his last three bouts, both against Makhachev at lightweight. He has steamrolled through the featherweight division, most recently defeating Yair Rodriguez in July at UFC 290. This bout represents a chance to resume his winning ways, helping lessen the sting of the most recent loss, which was a fight Volkanovski accepted with less than two weeks’ notice.

Courtesy Zuffa LLC

Topuria, however, is no easy matchup. He presents instant problems with his footwork and power. While Topuria (14-0) has yet to face an opponent at Volkanovski’s level, he has has defeated every opponent who has opposed him.

Whether Volkanovski can utilize his speed to defeat Topuria will be a critical factor in determining this bout.