Alexander Volkanovski: His Best Fights

Hey fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the incredible career of one of the most dominant featherweights the UFC has ever seen: Alexander Volkanovski. Seriously, this guy is a legend in the making, and if you're not watching his fights, you're missing out, big time. We're going to break down some of his absolute best performances that cemented his status as 'The Great'. Get ready, because we're talking knockouts, technical masterpieces, and wars that had us all on the edge of our seats. Volkanovski's journey is a testament to skill, heart, and relentless dedication, and exploring his top bouts is like taking a masterclass in striking, grappling, and pure fighting IQ. Let's get into it, guys!

The Dominant Reign of Volkanovski

When you talk about the greatest featherweights of all time, Alexander Volkanovski's name has to be right there at the top, maybe even the top. His reign as UFC Featherweight Champion was nothing short of phenomenal. He dethroned Max Holloway in a fight that was closer than the scorecards might suggest, but then went on to defend his belt against him twice more, proving his dominance wasn't a fluke. What's really impressive about Volkanovski is his incredible fight IQ and his ability to adapt. He's not just a powerful striker; he's a tactical genius inside the octagon. He can blend his wrestling background with his crisp boxing, making him a nightmare matchup for pretty much anyone in the division. We're talking about a guy who consistently faces top-tier talent and comes out on top, often with a masterful display of skill. His footwork is elite, his output is relentless, and his chin is made of granite. He doesn't just win; he outclasses his opponents, often dictating the pace and landing significant strikes with pinpoint accuracy. It’s this combination of physicality, technique, and mental fortitude that makes him such a compelling fighter to watch. He’s faced adversity, been in tough spots, and always found a way to win, showcasing incredible resilience and a championship mentality. His dedication to the sport is evident in every performance, as he constantly evolves and refines his skillset, ensuring he remains at the pinnacle of the featherweight division. He’s a true athlete, a warrior, and an inspiration to aspiring fighters around the globe, demonstrating what it takes to achieve and maintain greatness at the highest level of combat sports. The sheer consistency and quality of his performances over an extended period is what truly sets him apart and makes him a historical figure in the UFC.

Volkanovski vs. Max Holloway III: A Trilogy Closer

Okay, let's talk about Alexander Volkanovski's third showdown with Max Holloway. This fight was HUGE, guys. A trilogy bout for the featherweight title, and the hype was through the roof. Max Holloway is a legend in his own right, and he really wanted to reclaim that belt. But Volkanovski, man, he showed up and put on a clinic. He displayed incredible patience, picking his shots perfectly and using his footwork to control the distance. While Holloway landed some good shots, Volkanovski's defense was on point, and he consistently landed the more damaging blows. The strategy here was clear: Volkanovski wasn't going to get drawn into a slugfest that Holloway thrives in. Instead, he used his jab effectively, landed powerful kicks, and timed his entries for explosive combinations. It was a masterclass in pacing and execution. The fight showcased Volkanovski's growth since their previous encounters. He was less reactive and more proactive, dictating the flow of the bout from the opening bell. He managed the distance brilliantly, keeping Holloway at the end of his punches and limiting his ability to unload his signature volume. Even when Holloway pressed forward, Volkanovski often had an answer, either with a counter strike or by skillfully clinching and controlling the position. The sheer volume of strikes Volkanovski landed, coupled with his defensive awareness, made it a dominant performance. He weathered Holloway's storms and then capitalized on openings, demonstrating the ring generalship that has become his trademark. This fight wasn't just about winning; it was about demonstrating superiority and solidifying his legacy as the undisputed king of the featherweight division. It proved that Volkanovski had multiple gears and could adapt his game plan to overcome even the most dangerous and skilled opponents. The respect between these two warriors was palpable, but in the octagon, it was all business, and Volkanovski was simply the better fighter on the night, earning a decisive victory that silenced any remaining doubters about his place among the featherweight elite. It was a performance that underlined his tactical genius and his unwavering commitment to staying at the top.

Volkanovski vs. Brian Ortega: A Technical Battle

Next up on our list, we've got Alexander Volkanovski against Brian Ortega. This was a super technical fight, and honestly, it had a bit of everything. Ortega is known for his dangerous submission game and his ability to pull off unexpected wins. He came out looking sharp, and there were moments where he really threatened Volkanovski on the ground. But here's where Volkanovski's heart and skill truly shined. He weathered some serious submission attempts, including a couple of nasty triangle chokes and an armbar that had everyone holding their breath. He showed incredible composure and defensive grappling, fighting out of tough positions with a calmness that belied the danger he was in. On the feet, Volkanovski was his usual dominant self, landing sharp punches and controlling the pace. He used his jab to set up his power shots and his movement to stay out of Ortega's range. This fight was a true test of wills, and Volkanovski passed with flying colors. He demonstrated not only his striking prowess but also his incredible toughness and submission defense. It’s easy to focus on his stand-up, but his ability to survive and escape dangerous grappling situations against a submission wizard like Ortega speaks volumes about his all-around skill set. He didn't just survive; he eventually found his rhythm and started to inflict damage, wearing Ortega down round after round. The fight highlighted Volkanovski's adaptability; he could go toe-to-toe on the feet and also demonstrate elite defensive grappling when needed. This victory wasn't just a win; it was a statement. It showed that Volkanovski could handle adversity, overcome dangerous submissions, and still come out on top against a top contender. He proved that his championship reign was built on a solid foundation of diverse skills and an unbreakable spirit. The sheer grit and determination he displayed in escaping those submission attempts were a testament to his mental fortitude and his deep understanding of the grappling game. It was a fight that showcased his evolution as a complete mixed martial artist, capable of winning in multiple ways against elite competition. His ability to remain calm under pressure and execute his game plan even when facing critical danger is a hallmark of his championship pedigree and makes him an incredibly difficult fighter to defeat. It was a true display of a champion’s spirit and a testament to his relentless pursuit of perfection in every facet of the fight game.

Volkanovski vs. Chad Mendes: Early Upset Potential

Now, let's rewind a bit to Alexander Volkanovski's clash with Chad Mendes. This was a massive step-up for Volkanovski at the time, and many considered Mendes the favorite. Chad Mendes, as we all know, is a phenomenal wrestler with knockout power. He came out strong, landing some heavy shots and even dropping Volkanovski early in the fight. For a moment there, it looked like Mendes might pull off the upset. But Volkanovski, true to form, weathered the storm. He showed incredible resilience, got back to his feet, and started to systematically break Mendes down. He used his footwork and movement to avoid Mendes's explosive takedowns and started landing his own strikes. What was so impressive here was Volkanovski's composure. He didn't panic when he was hurt; he stuck to his game plan. He utilized leg kicks to slow Mendes down and landed powerful punches that visibly hurt Chad. The fight turned into a brutal striking battle, and Volkanovski proved he could hang with one of the division's toughest hitters. He ultimately secured a TKO victory in the second round, a massive win that signaled his arrival as a legitimate title contender. This fight was crucial because it showed Volkanovski's ability to overcome adversity against a proven veteran. He proved he had the chin, the power, and the fight IQ to compete at the highest level. It wasn't just about winning; it was about how he won – by absorbing damage, staying composed, and executing his strategy to perfection. This victory propelled him into the elite tier of the featherweight division and set the stage for his championship aspirations. He demonstrated that he wasn't just a prospect; he was a force to be reckoned with, capable of taking on and defeating anyone. His ability to adapt and overcome a dangerous opponent like Mendes, who had previously challenged for the title, was a clear indicator of his potential and his unyielding determination. The fight cemented his reputation as a fighter who could handle pressure and deliver when it mattered most, showcasing a maturity and tactical awareness beyond his years. It was a defining moment in his career, proving his championship mettle against a formidable challenge and paving the way for his eventual ascent to the top of the featherweight mountain. The resilience and strategic brilliance displayed in this bout are often overlooked but are fundamental to understanding the making of 'The Great'.

The Future of 'The Great'

So there you have it, guys! Some of the absolute best fights from the undisputed featherweight king, Alexander Volkanovski. His career is a masterclass in what it takes to be a champion: skill, heart, and an incredible fight IQ. We've seen him dominate, overcome adversity, and prove time and time again why he's 'The Great'. Whether he moves up to lightweight or continues his reign at featherweight, one thing's for sure: Volkanovski will always bring an elite performance. Keep watching, keep cheering, and appreciate the greatness we're witnessing. What are your favorite Volkanovski fights? Let us know in the comments below!