Volkanovski (27-5 MMA, 14-4 UFC), who saw his first featherweight title reign come to an end at the hands of Topuria by knockout at UFC 298 in February 2024, urges fighters to try and grapple "El Matador," and push him to unchartered waters.

The new UFC Lightweight Champion had a line of contenders waiting for him following his second title win at UFC 317. Paddy Pimblett, Justin Gaethje, and Arman Tsarukyan were all cageside for Topuria’s blistering knockout of former champion Charles Oliveira at the end of the night.