Get ready for a wild ride as we dive into the world of UFC and its latest twists and turns! The recent announcement of UFC 323's main event has sparked some intriguing revelations.
Former UFC double champion Henry Cejudo has dropped a bombshell, claiming that the highly anticipated UFC 323 was initially set to be headlined by none other than Alexander Volkanovski. But here's where it gets controversial...
After an impressive comeback at UFC 314, Volkanovski reclaimed his featherweight title, leaving fans eager for his next move. The Australian champion has been patiently observing the top contenders in the 145lb division, waiting for his next big challenge.
The Plot Thickens:
Volkanovski's long-awaited return to the Octagon was seemingly on the horizon, with talks of a potential clash against Russian contender Movsar Evloev. However, fate had other plans, and the undefeated Evloev's bad luck took him out of the running.
Enter Lerone Murphy:
Following Murphy's knockout victory at UFC 319, Volkanovski's attention turned to 'The Miracle.' According to Cejudo, a fight between Volkanovski and Murphy was the original plan for UFC 323, the year's final PPV event. But, the promotion made a major shift in direction.
Cejudo shared his insights during a recent episode of the Pound 4 Pound Podcast, stating, "I think they're saving the big fights for later. It seems like they're holding back some of the bigger stars. Merab Dvalishvili's willingness to fight frequently is a factor, as Dana White loves that. This move took Volkanovski and Murphy off the card."
The U-Turn:
UFC boss Dana White announced via Instagram Live that bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili will make a quick turnaround to defend his title against Petr Yan at UFC 323. This unexpected turn of events has left fans and analysts scratching their heads.
Cejudo's Connection:
Cejudo's knowledge of the inner workings might stem from his own involvement in the event. He's set to face Payton Talbott in what will be his retirement fight, giving him a unique perspective on the promotion's decisions.
Volkanovski's Return:
Despite his eagerness to get back in the ring, Volkanovski will have to bide his time until 2026. The premier promotion is scheduled to return to Sydney, Australia, in February, and Volkanovski is the top choice to headline that event.
The Mystery Opponent:
As for Volkanovski's next opponent, it's still up in the air. While Murphy seemed like a strong contender, recent rumors suggest a rematch with Diego Lopes, raising questions about the matchmaking process.
And this is the part most people miss: the intricate dance of negotiations, injuries, and strategic moves that shape the UFC landscape.
So, what do you think? Is the UFC making the right moves? Or are they missing a trick? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this intriguing turn of events!
