Alexander Volkanovski wasn’t always destined for the octagon. Once a rugby powerhouse, his rise into one of the most feared champions in UFC history is nothing short of remarkable. Power, precision, and relentless determination have fueled his ascent to the top, and here’s how grit, talent, and unshakable discipline created a featherweight king.
Rugby Beginnings
Before stepping into the MMA world, Volkanovski played semi-professional rugby in Australia. At over 200 pounds, his physical presence was a formidable force on the field. However, a shift in his athletic ambitions led him to pursue a different path. His incredible journey began when he switched from rugby to the octagon.
A Major Weight Cut
Transitioning from rugby to MMA wasn’t easy. Volkanovski made the challenging decision to drop more than 70 pounds to compete in the featherweight division. This dramatic weight cut proved critical to his success in the UFC, which showed his dedication to reinventing himself for a new career.
Wrestling Foundation
Volkanovski’s wrestling background provided a strong foundation for his MMA career. He began training in Greco-Roman wrestling at a young age, which later became a key part of his fighting style. Mastering this skill set enhanced his takedowns and allowed him to dominate his opponents inside the cage.
Early MMA Dominance
Starting his MMA career in 2012, Volkanovski quickly gained attention with his aggressive fighting style. Before joining the UFC, he compiled an impressive record of 13-1, including a ten-fight winning streak. Relentless determination and an unshakable hunger for victory fueled his dominance in the Australian MMA circuit, setting him apart from his competition.
UFC Debut
Alexander Volkanovski made his UFC debut in November 2016 at UFC Fight Night 101. He secured an impressive TKO victory against Yusuke Kasuya in the second round. This victory marked his arrival on the global MMA stage and established him as a future contender in the featherweight division.
Climbing The Featherweight Ranks
With each UFC fight, Volkanovski continued to rise through the featherweight rankings. The seamless integration of striking and grappling made him a dangerous adversary for anyone in the cage. He defeated top contenders like Chad Mendes and Darren Elkins, solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor.
Championship Victory
In December 2019, Volkanovski squared off against Max Holloway at UFC 245 with the UFC Featherweight Championship on the line. The fight was a thrilling five-round battle, but Volkanovski’s strategy earned him the unanimous decision victory. His win over Holloway crowned him the new featherweight champion.
Max Holloway Trilogy
The fierce competition between Volkanovski and Holloway has made their rivalry a cornerstone of UFC history. After winning their first bout, they fought two more times. Each fight was closely contested, with Volkanovski emerging victorious in all three. Their trilogy showcased his ability to overcome elite competition.
Defending The Title
As featherweight champion, Volkanovski successfully defended his title against some of the division’s top fighters, including Brian Ortega and Chan Sung Jung. Each fight highlighted his endurance, skill, and tactical intelligence and reinforced his status as one of the all-time great featherweights in UFC history.
Earning Respect
Initially, some fans questioned Volkanovski’s victories, especially against Holloway. However, with each successful title defense, he earned the respect of critics and fans alike. Relentless work ethic, discipline, and humility outside the octagon gradually won over doubters, turning many into believers.
A Powerhouse In The Cage
Standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall, Volkanovski may not be the tallest fighter in his division, but he more than compensates with raw power and intensity. With rugby-honed strength and a solid center of gravity, he possesses a rare advantage inside the cage. He’s an intimidating force to contend with inside the cage.
The Battle With Brian Ortega
One of the most dramatic moments of Volkanovski’s professional life and UFC history came in his fight against Brian Ortega in September 2021 at UFC 266. Ortega nearly trapped him with a dangerous submission attempt, but Volkanovski showed incredible heart by escaping and dominating the rest of the fight.
Dynamic Fighting Style
Throughout his career, Volkanovski continually refined his fighting style, skillfully blending striking, grappling, and cage control. Working with top coaches and sparring partners, he developed a tactical approach to adapt to different opponents. His versatility has been essential to his longevity at the sport’s peak.
Family Man
Outside of the octagon, Volkanovski is a devoted family man. His wife and daughters are a big part of his life, and he often speaks about the motivation they provide him. Despite the intense demands of his fighting career, he makes sure to spend quality time with his family, keeping his life grounded.
Legacy In The Making
The story of Alexander Volkanovski is far from complete. With every victory, his legacy in the UFC grows stronger. Already regarded as one of the greatest featherweights, his unwavering commitment to sharpening his skills signals even more extraordinary accomplishments ahead. Volkanovski’s career in sports shows no signs of slowing.
The Rise And Reign Of Alexander Volkanovski