Alexander Volkanovski’s Next Title Defense: Lerone Murphy Bout Uncertain

Alexander Volkanovski`s highly anticipated featherweight title defense, initially expected to feature Lerone Murphy, now faces uncertainty. `The Great` reclaimed his 145lb belt by defeating Diego Lopes at UFC 314 in April.

Murphy earned his title shot by knocking out Aaron Pico at UFC 319 last month, leading to speculation that a clash between him and Volkanovski would headline UFC 323 in December. However, Volkanovski has revealed that an unforeseen development, a `spanner in the works,` has altered these plans.

Volkanovski Provides Fight Update

Speaking in Perth, Australia, ahead of a recent UFC event, the 36-year-old champion discussed his future with Submission Radio. When asked about a potential December fight against Lerone Murphy, Volkanovski stated, “I mean, it`s hard. I thought that was what it was gonna be, but there might be a spanner in the works.”

He further hinted at a possible UFC event in Sydney, Australia, suggesting, “February in Sydney. Is it February?” as a potential new timeline for his return.

Who Else Could Alexander Volkanovski Fight?

The unexpected shift opens the door for other contenders. Undefeated 19-0 featherweight Movsar Evloev has long been on the verge of a title shot. He was slated to fight Aaron Pico at UFC 319 but withdrew due to injury, an opportunity Murphy seized to gain prominence.

Should Evloev be bypassed, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling could emerge as a candidate. `The Funk Master` boasts a 2-1 record since moving to 145lbs, with his latest victory over Brian Ortega at UFC Shanghai in August.

Another dark horse is Diego Lopes, who, despite losing to Volkanovski earlier this year, recently showcased his knockout power with a “Fight of the Year” contender against Jean Silva at Noche UFC, making him a viable, albeit less likely, option.