In preparation for his upcoming lightweight title challenge against Islam Makhachev, Alexander Volkanovski decided to add some extra muscle. Regardless of the outcome, Volkanovski stated that this was only a temporary change. Now, as he returns to the featherweight division for his title unification bout against interim champ Yair Rodriguez at UFC 290, Volkanovski claims that the journey back to 145 pounds has been smooth. He mentioned that he may have gained some additional muscle, but nothing too extreme.
Volkanovski’s last fight against Makhachev didn’t go as planned, resulting in a unanimous decision loss at the 155-pound weight class. However, in the featherweight division, he remains undefeated with a record of 15-0. Notably, Volkanovski has won five UFC featherweight championship fights, three of which were against Max Holloway, a renowned UFC champion in that weight class. While this ties him with Holloway for the second-most championship wins in UFC featherweight history, he still has some way to go to surpass Jose Aldo’s record, excluding Aldo’s additional title victories in the WEC 145-pound weight class.
Volkanovski is aware of the work he needs to do to catch up to Aldo, who is set to join the UFC Hall of Fame’s Modern Wing this week. However, he also has other goals and records he aims to achieve. He acknowledges the importance of his opponents, as he consistently faces the best fighters in the stacked featherweight division. Volkanovski wants to continue defending his title against formidable opponents and hopes to break Aldo’s remarkable record. Ultimately, he believes that taking on the biggest fights is what will truly define his legacy.
In addition to his victory over Aldo, Volkanovski has also defeated Chan Sung Jung and Brian Ortega during his title reign. Now, he faces Rodriguez, who holds the interim belt he won on the same night Volkanovski suffered his loss. Rodriguez is known for his ability to end fights in various ways and at any moment. His submission of Josh Emmett and knockout of Jung both showcase his dangerous unpredictability. This danger excites Volkanovski as he strives for greatness.
Volkanovski recognizes that Rodriguez’s unpredictability and search for finishes make him a challenging opponent. However, he also sees opportunities to capitalize on Rodriguez’s tendencies. While the fight promises excitement for both fighters and fans, Volkanovski remains focused on his quest for greatness and aims to seize every opportunity presented to him.
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