UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski is at a pivotal juncture in his career, expressing aspirations to compete a few more times before he officially hangs up his gloves. The Australian fighter, boasting an impressive record of 26 wins and 4 losses, is set to face Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title on April 12 at UFC 314. Following the departure of Ilia Topuria from the championship landscape, Volkanovski’s determination to reestablish his dominance in the division has granted him renewed vigor.
Volkanovski recently opened up about his contemplation of retirement after experiencing back-to-back knockout defeats, first to lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and then to Topuria at UFC 298. The emotional toll of these losses appeared to have sparked thoughts of walking away from the sport. However, after a period of reflection and recovery, Volkanovski has come to terms with his career’s trajectory, setting the stage for what he envisions as a fulfilling farewell to active competition.
Balancing Passion and Leaving a Legacy
During an appearance on “The Ariel Helwani Show,” Volkanovski indicated that while he still feels a burning love for the sport, he is conscious of the physical implications and potential risks involved in competing at such a high level. “I still love it, but how much longer do I want to do this to myself and my body?” he pondered. His statement underscores the complex nature of an athlete’s mindset—a blend of passion and pragmatism.
Volkanovski’s desire to “sail off into the sunset” suggests he is not just competing for glory but is also earnestly interested in what life holds beyond fighting. Throughout the past year, he has embraced the opportunity to grow outside of the octagon, spending more time on his farm and enjoying aspects of life distinct from the relentless grind of a professional fighter. This balance signifies a maturity not often seen in fighters, who frequently find it difficult to transition from their intense careers.
Aiming for Championship Glory
With Lopes as his upcoming opponent, Volkanovski demonstrates strategic thinking and anticipates a successful title defense soon after claiming the vacant championship. He has openly declared his intention to call out Movsar Evloev post-fight, showing his readiness to maintain the momentum of his career. “I’m winning the belt and I’ll call him out,” he confidently stated, reflecting his competitive spirit, even as he contemplates the end of his career.
This upcoming fight is not merely about reclaiming a title; it embodies Volkanovski’s aim to leave a lasting impression in the sport before he ultimately decides to step away. As he prepares for this pivotal match in Miami, the fighter is motivated not just by the possibility of regaining championship status but also by the chance to further solidify his legacy in the UFC’s storied history.
In this critical phase of his journey, Volkanovski may well be poised to transition from his role as a reigning champion to a thoughtful retiree, a transition that many athletes struggle with but one that could define his career story for years to come.