Alexander Volkanovski next fight: When, where, what to know about title fight with Yair Rodriguez

Alexander Volkanovski came painfully close to becoming a double-champ early in 2023, going down by unanimous decision to Islam Makhachev in a fight many thought he should have won, and perhaps would have if the fifth round was 20 seconds longer. 

While Volkanovski is eager to run it back at lightweight, first he must go back down to featherweight and defend his title there, starting with interim title holder Yair Rodriguez.

Rodriguez claimed the interim strap in a clash with Josh Emmett, on the same card that saw Volkanovski challenge Makachev, but it will require another level from the Mexican to take down the current P4P number one fighter in the UFC.

Here's everything you need to know about the fight.

When is Volkanovski vs Rodriguez?

While there is no confirmed date as of yet, FOX Sports has reported that the UFC are targeting UFC 290 for Volkanovski vs Rodriguez, which is on July 8. 

This card will coincide with International Fight week, which will also see Stipe Miocic challenge new heavyweight champion Jon Jones. 

Volkanovski vs Rodriguez start time

There is no confirmed start time for Alex Volkanovski vs. Yair Rodriguez.

Where will Volkanovski vs Rodriguez take place?

While not confirmed, it is reported that Volkanovski will fight Rodriguez in Las Vegas, as part of UFC 290. 

Volkanovski vs. Rodriguez tickets

Tickets are currently not on sale for Alexander Volkanovski's fight with Yair Rodriguez.

How to watch Volkanovski vs. Rodriguez

It has not yet been announced where Alexander Volkanovski will fight Yair Rodriguez.

Volkanovski vs. Rodriguez fight card

The fight card for Alexander Volkanovski's fight with Yair Rodriguez is yet to be announced, but it is reported that the fight will be a part of the UFC 290 card.

While no fights have been confirmed for UFC 290, there are a number of rumoured clashes in addition to Volkanovski vs Rodrigues, including: Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic, Tony Ferguson vs Kevin Lee 2, and Bo Nickal vs Tresean Gore.

Confirmed fight card:

Who will win?

While there are no official betting odds, Volkanovski will enter the fight as the overwhelming favourite.

Volkanovski has held the featherweight title since December 2019 and has successfully defended it four times since. 

Alexander Volkanovski's past fights

Alexander Volkanovski's most recent fight was against Islam Makhachev, losing by unanimous decision in his attempt to claim the lightweight title.

Before this, Volkanovski defended his featherweight title with wins against Max Holloway, Chan Sung Jung, and Brian Ortega. 

Volkanovski vs Rodriguez betting odds

There are currently no betting odds for Alexander Volkanovski vs Yair Rodriguez.

• Nationality: Australian
• Born: September 29, 1988
• Height: 5'6" (168cm)
• Reach: 71 inches (180cm)
• Total fights: 27
• Record: 25-2 

• Nationality: Mexican
• Born: October 6, 1992
• Height: 5'11" (180cm)
• Reach: 71 inches (180cm)
• Total fights: 19
• Record: 15-3-1