Volkanovski, Yan Eye 2027 Title Fights After UFC 333 Defenses

Q: Will Volkanovski chase lightweight superfight glory, or risk his crown against a terrifying new knockout artist?

Volkanovski appears more likely to pursue the lightweight superfight if the UFC will grant it, but the safer and more logical divisional move is a featherweight defense against Jean Silva. The strongest evidence is Volkanovski’s own words after UFC 333. Following his knockout win over Movsar Evloev, he openly pushed for a 155-pound title fight with Justin Gaethje and said it is “something I would retire for.” He also said he would accept a bout with Arman Tsarukyan if that became the title fight, provided he does not hold up either division. Dana White’s response matters here too: he indicated Volkanovski has earned unusual freedom in choosing what comes next. Even so, the featherweight picture points directly to Silva. Volkanovski has already cleared much of the division, and Silva is the freshest, most dangerous challenger available. He has publicly demanded the shot, his finishing ability gives the UFC an easy promotional angle, and betting markets even opened with Silva favored over Volkanovski, reflecting how seriously his threat is being taken. So the tension is real: legacy and novelty at lightweight versus duty and danger at featherweight. If the UFC prioritizes spectacle and rewards Volkanovski’s résumé, the Gaethje or Tsarukyan route is very possible. If it prioritizes divisional order, Silva is the fight. Right now, Volkanovski seems to be chasing the superfight, but Silva remains the most likely opponent if the UFC insists he defend the crown.

3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Oct 25

Alexander Volkanovski and Petr Yan emerged from UFC 333 with their next likely title challengers in focus after successful defenses in Abu Dhabi.
Volkanovski knocked out Movsar Evloev, snapped the challenger’s 20-fight unbeaten streak and set the featherweight record for most UFC title fights, pushing Jean Silva ahead of other options.
Petr Yan edged Merab Dvalishvili in a five-round trilogy bout to retain momentum in his second title reign, with Sean O’Malley framed as the clearest bantamweight championship matchup.
Other proposed pairings include Dvalishvili against Mario Bautista, Aaron Pico against Yair Rodriguez and Losene Keita against the Melquizael Costa-Jared Gordon loser as divisions reset after UFC 333.