Alexander Volkanovski is aware that in MMA, perception is heavily influenced by recent performance.
Once considered by many to be the greatest featherweight champion ever, Volkanovski faces his upcoming UFC 314 fight amidst considerable doubt about his future. Having suffered consecutive knockout losses to Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria, and at 36 years old – an age where lighter weight fighters often experience decline – Volkanovski isn`t surprised by the questions surrounding his capabilities as he prepares to face the rising star, Diego Lopes.
“I believe many will view my recent losses as the end of my peak, pointing to various factors,” Volkanovski stated in an interview. “The fight against Makhachev was on short notice, a high-risk, high-reward opportunity I was eager to take, believing I could win. It didn`t go as planned. Shortly after, I faced Topuria and was knocked out again.”
“Many will understandably conclude that ‘he’s finished.’ They are entitled to that opinion. However, based on my training and preparation, I know I am not done. The only way to change perceptions is to perform this weekend and remind everyone of my abilities. That is precisely my intention.”
After the loss to Topuria in February, which followed the knockout by Makhachev four months prior, Volkanovski intentionally took a year off to physically and mentally recover.
During his time away, fighters like Lopes have rapidly ascended the featherweight rankings, generating significant anticipation for his UFC 314 appearance on Saturday.
Volkanovski assures that his absence was not simply a break. He has been diligently working behind the scenes to ensure his next fight has a different outcome than his previous two.
“Preparation is where you reaffirm your capabilities,” Volkanovski explained. “Many will look at the last two losses and my time off and assume I’m finished. But my training and my team know that’s not the case. I need to demonstrate this to everyone this weekend, and that’s the exciting challenge.”
“People tend to have short memories in this sport, which is part of its appeal. Perceptions can quickly change, and that’s exactly what I intend to do this weekend.”
A point of disappointment for Volkanovski regarding his upcoming fight is the missed opportunity to avenge his loss to Topuria, who vacated the featherweight title to move to the 155-pound division.
While he desired a rematch with Topuria, Volkanovski is not overly disappointed, as he still faces a formidable challenge in Lopes, who has been exceptional in the featherweight division recently.
“Naturally, I wanted the rematch with Ilia to prove myself and regain that win,” Volkanovski admitted. “But at least I get to compete against the new generation of fighters.”
“The sport is evolving, and I`m facing a young, motivated contender on a winning streak, making this fight for the vacant belt the next best thing.”
