The popular fighter is aiming to return to victory in Sydney this weekend.
Although Alexander Volkanovski has no intentions of retiring, he is expected to receive strong support from fans at the Qudos Bank Arena this Saturday. Returning to the lower weight division provides the Australian team with a prime opportunity to perform before a home crowd. Even though Volkanovski was defeated by his countryman at UFC 325, the event still features many well-known fighters and emerging talents.
One rising star is Tai Tuivasa, who is hoping to replicate his October 2020 comeback, when he rebounded from a tough loss with a devastating knockout.
Tai Tuivasa did not fight in 2025 after enduring a five-fight losing streak in Perth in August 2024. This is not the first time a fan-favorite heavyweight has taken time off to regroup and revive his UFC career. Following the first three losses of his UFC journey, Tuivasa made a notable return at UFC 254. Despite being shorter, the 6’2″ Australian overcame the size disadvantage against 7′ Stefan Struve, securing a last-second knockout in the first round. After the fight, Tuivasa was surprised to learn he had accidentally kicked his fallen opponent during his celebration, apologizing and jokingly offering him a beer. This fight marked the final match of Struve’s 24-fight UFC tenure, which began in 2009.
Tuivasa’s upcoming bout poses similar challenges. He shares the card with fellow Australian Alexander Volkanovski, who will defend his featherweight title at UFC 325. His opponent, Brazil’s Talison Teixeira, stands at an imposing 6’8” and is known for powerful knockouts, giving him a significant size advantage. However, if Tuivasa can steer the fight to his preferred style, he has a strong chance to snap his losing streak on Saturday night.
Fan Take: This matchup is crucial for fight fans as it highlights the resilience and heart of fighters like Tuivasa and Volkanovski—true Aussie warriors inspiring the next generation. Their performances on home soil could boost the sport’s popularity in Australia and showcase exciting matchups that elevate MMA globally.
