Alexander Volkanovski, the former UFC featherweight champion, has recently faced two knockout losses in his professional mixed martial arts career. Prior to 2023, Volkanovski had only been knocked out once in over 11 years as a fighter. However, since 2023, he has suffered two knockout defeats, prompting him to take a cautious approach to his return to the octagon.
Volkanovski's most recent loss came at UFC 298 against Ilia Topuria, who claimed the featherweight title by delivering a devastating right hand that ended the fight in the second round at 3:32. Following this defeat, Volkanovski expressed interest in a potential immediate rematch with Topuria, but emphasized the importance of allowing his head to rest and ensuring smart training practices.
After being issued a 45-day medical suspension by the California State Athletic Commission post UFC 298, Volkanovski indicated that he intends to extend his time off beyond the mandatory period before returning to competition. This decision reflects his commitment to prioritizing his health and well-being following the back-to-back knockout losses.
Despite the setbacks, Volkanovski remains determined to reclaim the UFC featherweight title, expressing confidence in his ability to once again hold the championship belt. He emphasized his dedication to the sport and his personal drive to succeed, stating that his motivation extends beyond external factors to include his own aspirations and goals.
As fans eagerly await Volkanovski's return to the octagon, the former champion's strategic approach to recovery and preparation underscores the importance of prioritizing health and safety in the demanding world of professional mixed martial arts.
