Alexander Volkanovski, after reclaiming the UFC featherweight title by defeating Diego Lopes at UFC 314, plans to continue being an active champion despite past setbacks and emphasizes that his passion for fighting and personal fulfillment outweighs the importance of holding the championship belt itself.
Alexander Volkanovski, once a relentless featherweight champion, defended his title four times in just two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, he’s back on top after defeating Diego Lopes for the vacant title at UFC 314 on April 12. His plan? To replicate that same level of activity.
Some doubted Volkanovski due to his age and recent losses by knockout to Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. Yet, he defied expectations by becoming the first fighter over 35 to clinch a UFC belt under 155 pounds in Miami. A feat not many saw coming.
“I’m not going to do anything too crazy,” Volkanovski remarked post-fight when asked about his future plans. “People will always get on my case for taking fights on short notice. But that’s just me—taking on challenges when the odds are against me.” He’s determined to keep pushing boundaries, even if it means being a bit stubborn.
Volkanovski’s resilience is evident in how he approaches training. “That same guy with that same mindset and mentality turns up in the gym every single f*cking day,” he declared. It’s this unwavering dedication that defines him as a champion. His team supports him because they know his capabilities, even if things don’t always go as planned.
After a grueling five-round bout with Lopes, Volkanovski left it to the promotion’s matchmakers to decide his next fight. However, he seemed uninterested in waiting until September to defend his title against Mexico’s Yair Rodriguez at the Noche UFC event in Guadalajara.
“If everything’s good, I’d probably like to go soon,” Volkanovski mentioned. “Maybe July or September. If I’m feeling good, maybe a quick turnaround with Movsar [Evloev].” His plan was rapid-fire matches, but getting hit more than expected changed things.
He’s cautious about injuries: “I’ll get X-rays and see what’s up. If all’s well, cuts heal fast. Give me a couple of weeks and I’ll be back at it.” Volkanovski remains committed to staying active and disciplined, regardless of setbacks or obstacles.
Rodriguez faced his own ups and downs at UFC 314, beating Patricio Pitbull but losing to Volkanovski via third-round stoppage. Despite Rodriguez’s interim champion status, Volkanovski questions if he deserves another shot over undefeated Evloev.
“Look, he’s a good dude,” Volkanovski said about Rodriguez. “If the UFC wants him next, I won’t stop it. But honestly, before that fight, I didn’t think he’d get a shot.” He’s leaving the decision to the UFC but has an eye on other contenders like Evloev.
Ultimately, for Volkanovski, it’s not just about holding the title again. “To be honest, it’s not about the belt,” he explained. “It’s about winning and staying on top.” The belt symbolizes success and sacrifice—a testament to his hard work.
“[This belt] is just gonna sit in the closet like the other one,” he mused. What truly matters is sharing these achievements with family and friends back home. That connection means more than any physical symbol of victory ever could.