EXCLUSIVE: Alexander Volkanovski 'had no idea' about fellow Aussie's UFC title shot

Alexander Volkanovski has revealed he found out in real time about fellow Australian star Jack Della Maddalena earning a shot at the UFC welterweight title.

The announcement was made during an Instagram live stream from Dana White last week, where he unveiled a stack of upcoming fights for the company.

Volkanovski knew he needed to tune in to hear from the horse's mouth about his own championship clash against Diego Lopes in April.

READ MORE: Raiders front up after Vegas hotel fight

READ MORE: 'Doesn't make sense': Eels torn up after agent's email leak

READ MORE: Injured superstar 'itching' for return as rare feat awaits

But in the midst of hearing from his boss, the 36-year-old was left stunned to hear that Della Maddalena would also have a chance at UFC gold less than a month later.

"That was awesome," Volkanovski told Wide World of Sports.

"I had no idea about it and not many people knew about it, so it came as a bit of a shock.

"I was watching that live feed from Dana White, because that's where I knew my fight was going to be announced. I was surprised about my own fight being for a vacant title, I didn't even know that, so I kept watching and listening.

"Then I heard Jack Della's name and was like 'wait a second, what's going on here' and I actually got the reaction on video of me listening to that live.

"I was absolutely rapt for him, he's a good dude and obviously an Aussie, so I'll always support the Aussies. It's a great opportunity for him and I think he's gonna do well."

The 28-year-old Perth product has been turning heads in the sport, with victories over the likes of Gilbert Burns and Kevin Holland catapulting him into title contention.

Della Maddalena (17-2) has enjoyed a rapid rise up the rankings and will take on Belal Muhammed for the 185-pound strap in the main event of UFC 315 on May 11 (AEDT).

Volkanovski on the other will square off against Lopes on April 14 in Miami, Florida.