Alexander Volkanovski, the previously crowned UFC Featherweight Champion, acknowledges the pivotal juncture he’s reached in his Mixed Martial Arts trajectory. His track records notes a set of three consecutive defeats, inclusive of two bouts against the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, Islam Makhachev within a biennial timeframe. He understands that he is inching closer to a potential suspension of his MMA journey. Presently, Volkanovski has had to confront the reality of his future in the sport, as well as his aspirations from a prospective unoccupied title clash against Diego Lopes, and his all-encompassing long-term vision.
Voicing his anticipations, Volkanovski reveals his contemplation towards two or three more in-ring appearances in the UFC. ‘I remain passionate about the sport, but I’ve also to ponder over the duration I wish to extend this strain on myself and my physicality. I do harbor the desire to one day wind down gracefully. That process has been set in motion. I am amidst nature on a farm and have found last year’s experience gratifying. It’s been downright splendid.’
With this cogitation of retirement surfacing, Volkanovski’s acceptance to pit against Lopes (acknowledged immensely as an emerging prospect) seems to serve a constrained set of objectives; one being a quest for affirmation. He opens up on his doubts from a few months back concerning his possible return to the UFC or MMA sport, ‘Quite honestly, I was uncertain in the past. I contemplated, ‘Maybe I am no longer the athlete I once was, but it doesn’t imply that I lack the ability to triumph.’ The smarter approach will always be the keystone of my strategy. This is an aspect I’ve consistently adhered to.’
Volkanovski’s strategic mindset led him to an epiphany that ultimately steered him back to the birthplace of his career, the UFC. ‘The present scenario compels me to reevaluate. I feel revitalized,’ he expresses. ‘It’s astonishing how full of vitality, agility, and precision I find myself at the moment. My circumstances are noticeably favorable.’
He is positioned for a title reclaiming opportunity on April 12, which could potentially reinstate his pedestal of dominance, an experience only a select few featherweights manage to witness. As it stands, the passing of time will reveal the outcome.