What happened: On Ariel Helwani Show, host Ariel Helwani argued against a proposed matchup between Alexander Volkanovski and Justin Gaethje where both fighters would retire afterward. Helwani said the pitch would leave two UFC divisions vacant and noted that fans have not been clamoring for the cross-weight clash. Co-host Chuck Mindenhall agreed on the broadcast, stating that Arman Tsarukyan has earned the next lightweight title opportunity.

Why it matters: Panelist Conner Burks suggested UFC executives Hunter Campbell and Sean Shelby would reject the bout to keep Volkanovski defending his featherweight title. Ben Fowlkes noted that while the pairing would offer 'a big dumb fun good time,' pitting two reigning division leaders in an immediate double retirement complicates title legitimacy.

What to watch: Matchmakers Sean Shelby and Hunter Campbell will determine whether Volkanovski remains at featherweight or if top lightweight contenders move forward with a scheduled title bout.