After Ilia Topuria's impressive title defense against Max Holloway at UFC 308, several exciting matchups could shape his future in the octagon. Here’s a closer look at two compelling opponents.

1. Ilia Topuria vs. Alexander Volkanovski

This fight represents a clash between the reigning champion and the former champion, providing a storyline filled with history and rivalry. Volkanovski has a storied career, and a rematch would be a significant opportunity for him to reclaim the title.

Volkanovski, being ranked #1 in the featherweight division, is the top contender for Topuria’s title. A fight against Volkanovski is crucial for Topuria to solidify his championship reign and further establish himself as a dominant force in the division.

Both fighters are known for their striking prowess and grappling skills, promising an action-packed bout that could captivate fans and analysts alike.

Last Five Fights:

1. Loss (26–4) vs. Ilia Topuria - KO (punch) at UFC 298, February 17, 2024 (Round 2)
2. Loss (26–3) vs. Islam Makhachev - KO (head kick and punches) at UFC 294, October 21, 2023 (Round 1)
3. Win (26–2) vs. Yair Rodríguez - TKO (punches) at UFC 290, July 8, 2023 (Round 3)
4. Loss (25–2) vs. Islam Makhachev - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 284, February 12, 2023 (Round 5)
5. Win (25–1) vs. Max Holloway - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 276, July 2, 2022 (Round 5)

2. Ilia Topuria vs. Diego Lopes

Lopes is currently ranked #3 in the featherweight division and has been on a strong run, making him a significant challenge for Topuria. A fight between these two would have high stakes, possibly determining the next title contender.

Lopes has demonstrated impressive form, defeating several top-level opponents recently. A bout against Topuria could establish Lopes as a title challenger while giving Topuria the chance to defend against a rising star.

Both fighters have fan-friendly fighting styles, which could lead to an exciting and competitive matchup, generating buzz and viewership.

Last Five Fights:

1. Win (26–6) vs. Brian Ortega - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 306, September 14, 2024 (Round 3)
2. Win (25–6) vs. Dan Ige - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 303, June 29, 2024 (Round 3)
3. Win (24–6) vs. Sodiq Yusuff - TKO (punches) at UFC 300, April 13, 2024 (Round 1)
4. Win (23–6) vs. Pat Sabatini - KO (punches) at UFC 295, November 11, 2023 (Round 1)
5. Win (22–6) vs. Gavin Tucker - Submission (armbar) at UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Font, August 5, 2023 (Round 1)

3. Ilia Topuria vs. Winner of Movsar Evloev vs. Aljamain Sterling (UFC 310)

The winner of Evloev vs. Sterling is poised to be a significant contender in the featherweight division, making this matchup pivotal for Topuria. A fight against either of these fighters could determine the next title challenger and add an exciting layer to the division’s dynamics.

Evloev is known for his wrestling and grappling skills, while Sterling brings a unique blend of striking and submission abilities. This variety in fighting styles could create a compelling matchup for Topuria, who excels in both striking and grappling, making for an intriguing contest.

With both Evloev and Sterling being elite competitors, a victory over one of them would not only bolster Topuria’s championship credentials but also enhance his legacy within the division, solidifying his status as a dominant champion.

Last Five Fights:

• Movsar Evloev:
  1. Win 18–0 vs. Arnold Allen - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 297, January 20, 2024 (Round 3)
  2. Win 17–0 vs. Diego Lopes - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 288, May 6, 2023 (Round 3)
  3. Win 16–0 vs. Dan Ige - Decision (unanimous) at UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Rozenstruik, June 4, 2022 (Round 3)
  4. Win 15–0 vs. Hakeem Dawodu - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 263, June 12, 2021 (Round 3)
  5. Win 14–0 vs. Nik Lentz - Decision (split) at UFC 257, January 24, 2021 (Round 3)
• Aljamain Sterling:
  1. Win 24–4 vs. Calvin Kattar - Decision (unanimous) at UFC 300, April 13, 2024 (Round 3)
  2. Loss 23–4 vs. Sean O’Malley - TKO (punches) at UFC 292, August 19, 2023 (Round 2)
  3. Win 23–3 vs. Henry Cejudo - Decision (split) at UFC 288, May 6, 2023 (Round 5)
  4. Win 22–3 vs. T.J. Dillashaw - TKO (punches) at UFC 280, October 22, 2022 (Round 2)
  5. Win 21–3 vs. Petr Yan - Decision (split) at UFC 273, April 9, 2022 (Round 5)