Experienced Alexander Volkanovski reflects on the effects of age on his current career phase: 'Calculating'

Volkanovski promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Just days away from another title defense in the main event of UFC 325, Alexander Volkanovsky will Diego lopes On the other side of the octagon as an opponent, he would continue writing one of the most successful stories in MMA history. However, at 37 years old, the Great publicly acknowledged the need to approach the sport differently.

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In an interview with ESPN, the Australian acknowledged that his current stage in the sport no longer allows for mistakes inside the octagon. Even as the reigning featherweight champion (up to 65,7 kg), Volk went through a difficult period after being knocked out in succession by... Islam makhachev e Ilia Topuria.

“You have to be calculating, especially at this stage of my career. It’s better to do everything right, because things can go wrong if you don’t do it right at 37. I love talking about this. I like this pressure. I want people to think I’m old. I am old, but I’m still better than these guys,” he stated.

Alexander Volkanovsky says his age reminds him he can't afford to make mistakes

"You need to be calculated, especially at this point in my career. You better be doing it right, because things can go bad if you're not doing it right at 37 years old. I'm happy to talk about that.… pic.twitter.com/g7Jqi3OiNp

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) January 28, 2026

The first fight against the Brazilian marked the Australian's return to the top of the category. Despite being knocked down by a punch at the end of the second round, Volk managed to dominate the duel and emerge victorious by unanimous decision.

Alexander Volkanovski is one of the biggest names in UFC history.

Alexander Volkanovsky before fight in UFC 314. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India

A two-time featherweight champion (up to 65,7 kg), the Great One has victories against Max Holloway, José Aldo, Chad Mendes e Yair RodriguezIn total, he has seven wins in title fights, just one less than the King of Rio. One more victory would put him in sole possession of the title and solidify his name as the best featherweight of all time.