Alexander Volkanovski lost the pound-for-pound battle – so why is he still No 1?

Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/ufc/arnold-allen-max-holloway-ufc-fight-night-b2281082.html

Alexander Volkanovski solidified his grip on the featherweight title at UFC 290 at T-Mobile Arena on Saturday, while Alexandre Pantoja continued to mystify Brandon Moreno.

Source: https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/mma-ufc/one-belt-retained-another-changes-hands-at-ufc-290-2835686/

Alexander Volkanovski — who lost the main card fight via decision — went the five-round distance against Russian lightweight Islam Makhachev.

Source: https://www.perthnow.com.au/sport/ufc/ufc-284-logan-paul-tony-galati-nic-naitanui-join-for-the-ultimate-crossover-at-perths-rac-arena--c-9735286

Especially considering he’ll have to move up a weight class to face off against Alexander Volkanovski or Yair Rodriguez.

Source: https://brobible.com/sports/article/ufc-star-aljamain-sterling-wants-double-champ-status/

The unexpected setback has opened the door for featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, who will step in to fight lightweight champ Islam Makhachev on just 11 days’ notice.

Source: https://www.baltimoregaylife.com/baltimore-lgbtq-community-volkanovski-replaces-oliveira-set-to-challenge-makhachev-at-ufc-294-espn/

While it’s easier for the U.F.C. to market stars with large, grandiose personalities, the company has made a strategic effort to still prop up Alexander Volkanovski, the featherweight champion.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/live/2023/07/08/sports/ufc-290-results

Who do you want to see Alexander Volkanovski fight next?

Source: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/ufc/alexander-volkanovski-ufc-injured-arm-30424143