"After Volkanovski Retires": Petr Yan Plots Future Move to Featherweight
Petr Yan has plans to move up in weight and fight for the featherweight title to secure double champ status, but he's waiting for Alexander Volkanovski to retire.
Few fighters in the UFC possess the precise, relentless striking of bantamweight champion Petr Yan. The Russian power-puncher has long been considered one of the absolute best 135-pounders on the planet, but like many elite competitors, the temptation of chasing "champ-champ" status is never too far from his mind.
While a move up to the 145-pound featherweight division sounds like a natural next step, Yan has one major obstacle standing in his way, and it’s not weight cutting or stylistic matchups. It’s his close friendship with reigning UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski.
Friendship Standing in the Way of Two-Division Gold
Speaking on his future ambitions, Yan admitted that testing the waters at 145 pounds is something he actively wants to pursue down the line. However, out of respect for Volkanovski, any plans for a featherweight title chase are strictly on hold until the Australian legend decides to call it a career.
“Personally for myself, moving up sounds interesting too, somewhere in the future,” Yan said regarding a potential weight class change. “Just 145 champ is my friend Alexander Volkanovski, so I don't want to beat him up.”
Yan’s reluctance to fight a friend is a refreshing take in a sport often dominated by bitter rivalries and trash talk. Both Yan and Volkanovski have spent time training together over the years, building a deep mutual respect forged through grueling rounds of sparring.
Still, a move to featherweight makes plenty of sense for Yan down the road. Known for his methodical pressure, razor-sharp boxing, and elite takedown defense, Yan’s technical brilliance would give top featherweights fits. Skipping a brutal weight cut to 135 pounds could also boost his cardio and durability even further.
For now, Yan remains focused on dominating the bantamweight ranks. But once Volkanovski eventually hangs up his gloves and sails off into retirement, don't be surprised to see "No Mercy" march up to 145 pounds in pursuit of a second UFC belt.
