Alexander Volkanovski Offers Arman Tsarukyan Title Fight

Alexander Volkanovski says he would vacate his featherweight title to fight Arman Tsarukyan for the UFC lightweight championship if Justin Gaethje does not return. Speaking recently on The Ariel Helwani Show, Volkanovski said a matchup with Tsarukyan has become more appealing to him than a fight with Gaethje.

The Australian raised the possibility after knocking out Movsar Evloev in the UFC 333 main event in Abu Dhabi last Saturday. Volkanovski had discussed Gaethje as a potential opponent in the days before the event. Gaethje, the reigning lightweight champion, has not decided whether he will continue fighting, and the source says he is expected to make a decision soon.

Volkanovski's Tsarukyan title proposal

Volkanovski said he would leave the featherweight title behind to challenge Tsarukyan for the lightweight belt. He added that if he held the lightweight championship, he would be willing to fight Tsarukyan, and said he would take the matchup if Gaethje does not want it.

The former featherweight champion pointed to Tsarukyan’s wrestling and grappling as part of the appeal. Volkanovski said he respects Tsarukyan’s ability but believes he can get back to his feet and make the fight stand up. He also noted that Tsarukyan has strong striking, describing the matchup as one he would enjoy.

Volkanovski has previously moved up to lightweight, and UFC president Dana White supported the idea of another move for the 38-year-old. The report does not say whether the UFC has offered or arranged a fight with either lightweight contender.

Tsarukyan's position on a lightweight bout

Tsarukyan had previously discussed moving down to challenge Volkanovski for the featherweight title. He has since ruled out that option, but said he would welcome Volkanovski back to lightweight for a title fight if Gaethje retires.

For now, the potential matchup depends on Gaethje’s decision about his future. No fight has been confirmed or scheduled.