UFC analyst Laura Sanko is most excited for the 2024 championship bout where Alexander Volkanovski will defend his featherweight title against Ilia Topuria, highlighting Volkanovski’s return to featherweight after a knockout loss and Topuria’s undefeated record as factors contributing to the anticipation.
UFC’s 2024 pay-per-view line-up is jam-packed with intriguing fights. Yet, for Laura Sanko, UFC analyst, one match stands out. It’s the upcoming championship bout.
Our main event at UFC 298? Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria. This featherweight title defense is set for Feb. 17 at the Honda Center, Anaheim, Calif. It’s Volkanovski’s comeback after a brutal knockout by Islam Makhachev last October. That was his second shot at the lightweight title.
Sanko believes featherweight is Volkanovski’s true home.
“I enjoyed his lightweight bouts against Islam, but part of me thinks, alright, we’ve seen that, let’s move on,” Sanko shared with MMA Fighting. “Let’s get back to what you’re good at, reminding everyone why you’re the GOAT of this division. That’s why his fight with Topuria is so exciting.”
Volkanovski had a rough 2023, losing twice to Makhachev, including a close call at UFC 284. But amidst his second title quest, “The Great” crushed Yair Rodriguez in UFC 290‘s main event last July.
Topuria? He’s been on fire. With a flawless 14-0 pro record, including six UFC wins, he’s a force to reckon with. His last fight saw him dominate Josh Emmett for five rounds at UFC Jacksonville in June.
So, with Volkanovski licking his wounds from a losing 2023, and Topuria in top form, the championship stakes are sky-high for Sanko.
“I think Topuria might shock some folks. And Volkanovski’s mindset, coming off a knockout and a losing season, is intriguing,” Sanko opined. “He’s not used to feeling this way.”
“Remember when Israel Adesanya moved up to 205, then came back down? Always interesting to see how fighters handle that. But if anyone can bounce back stronger, it’s Volkanovski.”
“And Topuria? He’s super dangerous. The right guy for a title shot now, posing unique challenges. That’s the fight I can’t wait for,” Sanko added.