The UFC’s lightweight and featherweight divisions are in disarray following Ilia Topuria’s decision to vacate his title and move up a weight class to lightweight. Former champion Alexander Volkanovski is set to face Diego Lopes for the 145-pound championship at UFC 314, but doubts surround his performance due to back issues and mental health concerns.
Meanwhile, Patricio Pitbull is looking to prove himself as a top contender after defeating Michael Chandler in Bellator. He faces Yair Rodriguez on Saturday with a potential title shot hanging in the balance. Movsar Evloev, the undefeated 19-0 prospect, is also making a case for himself but will need perfection to secure a championship opportunity.
Newcomer Aaron Pico is set to join the UFC and could shake up the division with his impressive wrestling skills. Other contenders like Jean Silva, Youssef Zalal, and Lerone Murphy are also vying for a spot at the top of the rankings, but their paths will be complicated by the current landscape.
As the dust settles on Topuria’s departure, one thing is certain: the future of the UFC lightweight and featherweight divisions is uncertain, and it will take time for both divisions to reset.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/44552855/ufc-314-featherweight-ilia-topuria-does-alexander-volkanovski-it