Alexander Volkanovski believes Aljamain Sterling can move to the front of the line for a shot at the UFC featherweight championship with a victory over Kevin Vallejos.
Sterling is scheduled to face Vallejos at UFC Qatar on November 21, with the former bantamweight champion battling Jean Silva for the opportunity to challenge Volkanovski for the 145-pound title. While both contenders have made strong cases for themselves, the reigning champion believes Sterling currently has the edge.
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show on Wednesday, Volkanovski pointed to Sterling’s experience against elite competition as a key factor in the title conversation. He also acknowledged that he does not want to see Silva’s opportunities overlooked.
“I think he's had more high-level fights. It's hard, man, because I don't want to take opportunities away from (Jean Silva). I like Silva. I like Aljamain. But I believe if Aljamain wins another fight, I feel like Aljamain deserves it more,” Volkanovski said.
“When we're talking deserves more, I'm going to say Aljamain. Aljo deserves it more. But who do I think's next? They're both worthy competitors. But who do I think deserves it more? I think Aljo, man, especially after another win. Taking a fight against a dangerous guy like Kevin, you know what I mean?”
Jean Silva Could Get the Next Shot if Sterling Loses
When asked whether Silva would become the leading contender if Sterling fails to get past Vallejos, Volkanovski suggested that the Brazilian would be well-positioned to earn the title shot.
“That makes more sense for Jean Silva. So I think it's really up to that fight (between Sterling and Vallejos), I believe. So yeah, Silva's in a great position. I think he needs to just wait and see what happens with Aljo,” Volkanovski said.
Volkanovski Has His Eyes on Bigger Challenges
Although Volkanovski is prepared to face either Sterling or Silva, the Australian champion admitted that other potential matchups currently excite him more.
With discussions surrounding possible lightweight fights also in the picture, Volkanovski acknowledged that a clash with Justin Gaethje or a move toward a lightweight title fight holds particular appeal.
“Yeah, yeah. Well, I mean, anyone. I mean, whoever deserves it next, that's good enough for me, right? That's how I look at it,” Volkanovski said.
“But I mean, we are obviously talking about lightweight fights and all that. I'd be lying to say that the Jean Silva excites me more than a (Justin) Gaethje fight or even just a lightweight title fight.”
Despite his interest in opportunities beyond featherweight, Volkanovski emphasized that he respects the competitive landscape and does not intend to stand in the way of deserving challengers.
“But again, I understand the situation. Everyone knows what type of champion he is. I'm not trying to take people's opportunities away.”
