Alexander Volkanovski Makes History at UFC 314
In April at UFC 314, Alexander Volkanovski achieved a milestone by defeating Diego Lopes. This victory made him the first UFC champion in a weight class lighter than welterweight to hold a title at age 35 or older. The win also marked a comeback for Volkanovski, helping him recover from consecutive knockout losses and securing his first win since early 2023.
Reflections on Regaining the Championship
During an appearance on “The Ariel Helwani Show”, almost a month after his victory, the two-time champion expressed that he hasn’t focused much on retaining the title. “I don’t like to say it this way, but I don’t care too much about that,” Volkanovski remarked. He emphasized that the support from fans and the joy of overcoming challenges means more to him than the title itself.
Defying the Odds
Volkanovski, now 36, appeared unfazed in delivering a strong performance against Lopes. While some speculated about a potential decline in his abilities, the outcome of the fight suggested otherwise. The champion noted that he has always approached fights with a mindset of defying the odds, even if he isn’t technically the underdog.
Emotional Connections and Support
The victory also allowed Volkanovski to celebrate his return, particularly after a challenging period of three title losses. He stated, “Coming off the KO losses, it just does not happen,” reflecting on the emotional weight of returning to the top. Volkanovski appreciated the support from his fans during this journey and expressed how meaningful it was to see their happiness upon his return with the championship belt.
Mental Health and Adversity
Since his first fight with Makhachev in early 2023, Volkanovski has been candid about the mental health struggles he faced during a slump in his career. After his latest victory, he delivered an impactful message to fans, stating, “adversity is a privilege,” which he later realized had been a thought resonating within him throughout his journey.
Testing Resilience
Although Volkanovski showcased his skills in the ring, he faced challenges, including being knocked down by Lopes in Round 2. He viewed this moment as valuable, helping him affirm his durability amidst doubts about his resilience. Surviving such a test allowed him to regain confidence in his abilities.
Looking Ahead
Many contenders are eager to face Volkanovski, whether it’s his former opponent Yair Rodriguez or the undefeated Movsar Evloev. Volkanovski expressed interest in fighting Evloev, emphasizing the significance of challenging an undefeated fighter for his legacy. “I don’t want to rob Yair of an opportunity, but I’d love to take that zero,” he stated, illustrating his desire to compete against the best.
