Chael Sonnen Critiques Volkanovski's Lightweight Title Challenge

Alexander Volkanovski's intention to move up and challenge Justin Gaethje for the lightweight title has faced significant backlash from Chael Sonnen, who labeled the idea as one of the worst in mixed martial arts.

The current featherweight champion aims to secure a title fight at 155 pounds before retiring, with Dana White reportedly supporting this move. However, Sonnen expressed on his YouTube channel that Volkanovski should relinquish his featherweight title and navigate the lightweight division without any guarantees, emphasizing that true competition requires such a step.

Sonnen pointed out that fighters who genuinely wish to test themselves in a new weight class, like Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria, have vacated their titles. Volkanovski has previously lost to Islam Makhachev in two attempts for the lightweight title while still holding the featherweight belt. As Volkanovski, now 38, considers his options, the future of his title aspirations hinges on Gaethje's decisions, as the veteran fighter is contemplating retirement.