Alexander Volkanovski: The Final Chapter
Alexander Volkanovski, the legendary featherweight fighter, stands at the cusp of a pivotal moment in his career. In April, he will face Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title at UFC 314, following the vacating of the belt by former champion Ilia Topuria, who chose to move up to lightweight. This fight comes just months after Volkanovski’s title loss to Topuria, marking a significant turning point in his career. At 36 years old, Volkanovski is acutely aware that this might be one of his last fights in the octagon.
A Reflection on Legacy and Hardship
Reflecting on his career, Volkanovski expressed a mix of pride and weariness. “I don’t know how much longer I have left in this,” he candidly shared on The Ariel Helwani Show. “I could probably go a few more years, but I’m thinking of winning the belt, then defending. Even if I win, I’m thinking, ‘You know what, I’m done. How much longer do I want to do this?’ The journey to the top is relentless, and maintaining that level of excellence is grueling. Each day, it’s hard work, pain, and dedication. That’s what it takes to be the best, and I accept nothing less. It’s a tough road, but it’s one I’ve chosen and one that has brought me immense satisfaction.”
A Final Act of Glory
Volkanovski’s achievements are well-documented. He held the featherweight title from 2019 to 2024, defending it successfully five times. Widely regarded as one of the greatest featherweights and fighters of all time, Volkanovski is a sure-fire UFC Hall of Famer. Despite his success, he is driven by the desire for one last hurrah. “I’m really looking forward to this, but I want to have one last crack at it,” he said. “Win that belt, defend it, maybe defend it again. Then, maybe one big fight after that, we’ll see. That’s sort of where we’re at. But I want to be active as soon as I get this belt. When I get it back, I’m like, ‘Alright, when we doing this next one? Who is it? Movsar [Evloev], you ready? Let’s go.’ A couple of months after, whatever, I’m ready. That’s what I’m expecting to do.”
The Motivation to Keep Going
While Volkanovski’s plan is for just a few more fights, he acknowledges that plans can change. The lure of the octagon and the thrill of competition are strong motivators. “That could change,” he admitted. “I could win, defend quickly, and remind everyone just how ‘Great’ I am. I want to drag these guys into the octagon, hurry them up, and remind everyone of that. I’m the one telling the undefeated fighters, ‘Let’s go!’ I want people to be reminded of that and then we’ll see where we are after that.”
The Road Ahead
UFC 314 is set to take place on April 12 at Kaseya Center in Miami, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Volkanovski views this fight as more than just a title bout—it’s a chance to reclaim his legacy and leave a lasting mark on the sport. His determination and competitive spirit are as strong as ever, despite the physical and mental toll of his career. “I still love it,” he said, “but how much longer do I want to do this to myself and my body? I do want to eventually sail off into the sunset, right?”
A Legacy of Excellence
Alexander Volkanovski’s journey in MMA has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days to his reign as champion, he has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a true champion. As he approaches what might be his final chapter, Volkanovski is determined to go out with a bang. Whether this fight marks the beginning of his swan song or the start of a new chapter, one thing is certain: Alexander Volkanovski will leave an indelible mark on the sport of MMA.
