The Featherweight division has been through a turn of events in 2019; specifically over the last month. At UFC 245, Alexander Volkanovski defeated then-Champion Max Holloway for the title. With the win, he became the first ever Australian-born champion in UFC history.
After the fight, it was revealed that Volkanovski broke his right hand and will be forced to undergo surgery. At this time, there is no current timetable for his return to the octagon.
When asked about an instant rematch with Holloway, the former rugby star seemed interested. Volkanovski noted the following:
However, after the bout between Chan Sung Jung and Frankie Edgar at Fight Night 165, there may be an alternative route at hand. After winning via KO/TKO, Sung Jung has inserted himself in position to receive a title shot.
Looking at the bigger picture, if Volkanovski is forced to miss an extended period of time rehabbing his hand, the UFC needs to consider a fight between Holloway and ‘The Korean Zombie’. From there, the winner would receive a title fight against Volkanovski in 2020.
Holloway, who sits with a record of 21-5, has lost two of his last three fights. Both rulings were via unanimous decision. As for Sung Jung, he holds a record of 16-5, and has won three of his last four fights in the UFC. Each of those wins came from first-round knockout.
There are plenty of options for the Featherweight division moving forward. The UFC could foresee revenue in an instant rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. At the same time, it’s difficult to ignore that Chan Sung Jung has earned the right to fight for the belt.
However, Dana White needs to consider a bout between Holloway and Sung Jung in a contender fight.
Photo Credit: AP Photo
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