Alexander Volkanovski understands that in MMA, perception is heavily influenced by recent performance.
Once considered by many as possibly the greatest featherweight in history, the former champion faces significant questions about his future as he heads into UFC 314. This comes after suffering consecutive knockout defeats against Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. At 36, Volkanovski is also aware that fighters in lighter weight classes often start to decline around this age. Therefore, he is not surprised by the doubts surrounding his capabilities as he prepares to face a rising contender like Diego Lopes.
In an interview with First Take, Volkanovski commented on Tuesday, “I believe many will look at these losses as a downturn, attributing it to skill or other factors.” He elaborated on his fight against Makhachev, stating, “It was a fight on short notice, a high-risk, high-reward opportunity that I was eager to take, believing I could succeed. However, it didn`t go my way. Then, with a quick turnaround, I was caught again by Topuria.”
Volkanovski continued, “Many will understandably think `he`s finished,` and they are entitled to that view. But personally, based on my gym performance and preparation, I know I am not done yet. The only way to change public perception is to perform this weekend and remind everyone of my abilities. That is precisely my intention.”
Following his loss to Topuria in February, which occurred just four months after Makhachev`s head kick knockout, Volkanovski deliberately took time off to allow both his body and mind to recover.
During his absence, fighters like Lopes have rapidly climbed the featherweight rankings, generating considerable anticipation for his upcoming fight against Volkanovski at UFC 314 on Saturday.
However, Volkanovski assures everyone that his time away was not simply a vacation. He has been consistently working behind the scenes to ensure his next fight does not mirror his last two defeats.
“Preparation is where you rediscover your capabilities,” Volkanovski explained. “Many will focus on the last two losses and my time off, easily concluding that I’m done. But within the gym, both I and my training partners know that’s not the case. I aim to demonstrate this and remind everyone this weekend; that’s the beauty of this sport.”
“People tend to forget quickly, which is part of what we love about this sport. But they can also be reminded just as quickly, and that’s exactly what I plan to do this weekend.”
A point of disappointment for Volkanovski regarding his upcoming fight is the missed opportunity to avenge his loss to Topuria. Topuria vacated the featherweight title to pursue opportunities at 155 pounds, preventing a rematch.
Despite wanting to face Topuria again, Volkanovski is not overly upset, as he still faces a significant challenge in Lopes. Lopes has demonstrated top-tier featherweight performance over the past few years.
“Naturally, I wanted that rematch with Ilia to prove myself again and regain that win,” Volkanovski admitted. “But at least I still have the chance to compete against the new wave of fighters.”
“The sport is constantly evolving, and I am now facing a young, hungry fighter on a winning streak. This is the next best challenge for the vacant title.”
