Alexander Volkanovski lost the belt to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298 last Saturday. With this, the former champ wants a rematch against the young fighter. Despite not saying no to the proposal, nonetheless, “El Matador” believes it is time for the veteran to give the “new generation” the chance.

Topuria made a memorable success last weekend not only by stealing the featherweight belt but also by achieving a knockout win over “The Great.” The latest win allowed the 27-year-old to keep his MMA record unblemished and extend his winning streak.

Volkanovski has no words against the win, admitting that it “was a clean right hand” that sent him to canvas. Yet, the 35-year-old wants a rematch, as fans noted that the loss could be caused by his quick turnaround.

“Obviously, I’ve been a champ for a long time,” Volkanovski said during the UFC 298 post-fight news conference. “I want that rematch. That’s something that needs to happen. I’ve been reigning champ for how long? I’ve been a company man. I’ve backed up on short notice and fought Max (Holloway) three times. You name it, I’ve done it. I’ve been champ for a long time, so I think I deserve that. It’s going to be different next time.”

Topuria is not closing the doors for a rematch possibility, especially if UFC is the one that will arrange the bout. Yet, for the Spanish fighter, it is time for the division to see new challengers, with Topuria calling it a “new generation” for the featherweight.

“He’s such a good person,” Topuria said. “To be honest, at this point, I’m like, OK, I’m going to give him the rematch because he’s a good person. But at the same time, it’s time to move on. It’s time to clean up the division a little bit. It’s time for the new generation to have new challengers, new faces, and I think I will be looking for that. But to be honest, my job is to fight. Whoever they tell me I’m going to have to face and fight next, I will be there. That’s it.”

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