Alexander Volkanovski Reclaims Featherweight Title with Fifth Round TKO of Ilia Topuria at UFC 304

Alexander Volkanovski reclaimed his UFC featherweight championship on Saturday night at Manchester Arena, defeating Ilia Topuria via fifth-round TKO in a thrilling main event that showcased why many consider him the greatest featherweight of all time. The Australian veteran delivered a masterful performance that combined tactical brilliance with savage finishing ability, ultimately overwhelming the previously unbeaten Georgian-Spanish fighter with devastating ground-and-pound that forced referee Herb Dean to stop the contest at 4:23 of the final round.

The highly anticipated rematch began with both fighters showing mutual respect for each others power and grappling ability, leading to a cautious opening round that featured more tactical maneuvering than explosive action. Topuria appeared confident and composed, using his youth and speed advantage to land several clean shots while avoiding Volkanovskis signature leg kicks that had been so effective in their first encounter. The 27-year-old champion seemed determined to prove that his previous victory over Volkanovski was no fluke, implementing a patient game plan that kept the former champion at distance.

However, Volkanovski began to assert his experience and championship pedigree as the fight progressed into the middle rounds. The 35-year-old Australian gradually increased his output while mixing his striking with well-timed takedown attempts that began to frustrate Topuria and disrupt his rhythm. Volkanovskis corner, led by coach Joe Lopez, made excellent adjustments between rounds that allowed their fighter to exploit openings in Topurias defensive shell that had not been apparent early in the contest.

The turning point came midway through the fourth round when Volkanovski secured his first significant takedown of the fight, immediately transitioning to mount position and landing several hard shots that opened a cut above Topurias right eye. The blood seemed to energize Volkanovski, who sensed that his opponent was beginning to tire from defending takedowns while maintaining his striking output. The final bell of the fourth round likely saved Topuria from serious danger, as Volkanovski was landing punches at will from top position.

The fifth round was pure domination from Volkanovski, who scored an early takedown before transitioning through multiple positions while systematically breaking down Topurias defenses. The former champions ground game was on full display as he controlled posture, landed damaging strikes, and eventually moved to full mount where he unleashed a barrage of punches and elbows that left Topuria unable to intelligently defend himself. When Dean finally stepped in to stop the contest, Volkanovski erupted in celebration while a bloodied and exhausted Topuria accepted the defeat with grace.

The victory represents complete redemption for Volkanovski, who had been devastated by his knockout loss to Topuria in their first meeting nine months earlier. His ability to make the necessary adjustments and implement a winning game plan demonstrates the championship mentality that has defined his career and separated him from other elite fighters. At 35 years old, Volkanovski has proven that experience and tactical acumen can still triumph over youth and athleticism at the highest level of mixed martial arts.

As Volkanovski wrapped the championship belt around his waist for the fourth time, the Manchester crowd showed their appreciation for both fighters who had delivered an absolute classic. The victory sets up potential superfights against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev or a trilogy bout with Max Holloway, ensuring that Volkanovskis championship reign will continue to provide compelling matchups for fight fans around the world.