Featherweight champion Alex Volkanovski faced a setback at UFC 298 as he suffered his first loss at 145 pounds against rising star Topuria. Despite being gracious in defeat, Volkanovski acknowledged the speed and power of his opponent, emphasizing his desire for a rematch to reclaim his title. The loss marked a significant shift for Volkanovski, who had previously enjoyed a dominant reign with five title defenses and 12 consecutive wins inside the Octagon. Although Volkanovski's plea for an immediate rematch shows his deserving track record, the timing remains uncertain as Topuria holds the championship and future matchups are yet to be determined. Volkanovski's setback signifies a change in his Octagon trajectory, prompting considerations for his future fights and potential title contention.