Aleksandre Topuria Gets New Opponent at UFC 312 with Connection to Alexander Volkanovski

Aleksandre Topuria is forging his own path in MMA, but it’s impossible to ignore the weight of his last name. The 29-year-old is the brother of reigning featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, and now he’s set for a high-profile UFC debut at UFC 312.

Originally scheduled to face Cody Haddon, Topuria will now take on undefeated Australian prospect Colby Thicknesse after Haddon withdrew due to injury. What makes this fight even more intriguing is Thicknesse’s deep connection to former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, who will be in his corner on fight night.

Volkanovski, a longtime mentor and training partner to Thicknesse, expressed his excitement over the short-notice opportunity.

“How good is this? Very excited for Colby,” Volkanovski said. “There’s not a more deserving person than Colby Thicknesse. He’s probably the hardest worker I know on the planet. He’s got heart. He’s got the discipline. No one’s more committed than this guy.”

Thicknesse, a standout prospect in Australia’s MMA scene, has been part of Volkanovski’s core training team for years. His impressive work ethic and technical skills have made him one of the most promising fighters coming out of the region.

Meanwhile, Topuria enters the UFC with a 5-1 record, boasting a three-fight knockout streak. His aggressive striking and finishing ability have made him a prospect to watch, and he’s eager to make a statement in his UFC debut.

The fight between Topuria and Thicknesse remains on the preliminary card of UFC 312, which takes place on February 8 in Sydney, Australia.

The event is headlined by a highly anticipated middleweight title rematch between Dricus du Plessis and Sean Strickland. The co-main event will see strawweight champion Zhang Weili defend her belt against top contender Tatiana Suarez.