Volkanovski Reacts To Ortega’s Win Over ‘Zombie’

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Despite a questionable decision victory over Max Holloway at UFC 251, reigning featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski was in no big hurry to complete his “Blessed” trilogy, opting to ride the pine until the division could produce a clearcut No. 1 contender.

Mission accomplished.

Former title challenger Brian Ortega returned from a nearly two-year layoff to dominate Chan Sung Jung in the UFC Fight Island 6 featherweight main event last weekend in Abu Dhabi, a performance that will have “Great” benefits later this year, or perhaps early 2021.

“Finally we have some direction in this division,” Volkanovski wrote on Twitter. “Get in there and take that No. 1 spot. That’s all I wanted!”

The 32 year-old Volkanovski (22-1) remains undefeated inside the Octagon and aside from his pair of decision victories over Holloway, has also turned away the likes of former champion Jose Aldo, as well as ex-title contender Chad Mendes.

As for Ortega (15-1, 1 NC), now 29, his loss to Holloway stands as the only blemish on his otherwise flawless mixed martial arts (MMA) career. “T-City” has finished the likes of featherweight veterans Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson, among others.

Volkanovski vs. Ortega … who ya’ got?