Alexander Volkanovski, the seasoned veteran often referred to as “Old Man Volk,” proved that age is just a number at UFC 314. In a thrilling main event clash against Diego Lopes at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Volkanovski secured a unanimous decision victory, reclaiming the featherweight title and etching his name in history as the first fighter over 35 to win a world title in a weight class below 170 pounds.
This win marked a triumphant return to form for Volkanovski, who previously dominated the 145-pound division. His reign, marked by three impressive victories over Max Holloway, solidified his status as a future Hall of Famer. However, recent setbacks—knockout losses to Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria—had cast doubt on his ability to compete at the highest level. Volkanovski’s performance on Saturday night emphatically silenced those doubters.
The fight was a back-and-forth affair, a true slugfest. Lopes, a rising star with an impressive undefeated streak, delivered a powerful right hand in the second round, sending Volkanovski to the canvas. But the resilient champion quickly recovered, showcasing his trademark movement and precision jab to regain control. While Lopes landed some heavy blows, including an uppercut that opened a cut above Volkanovski’s eye, the Australian fighter expertly used his movement to avoid significant damage.
Volkanovski’s strategic approach was evident in the fight statistics: he more than doubled Lopes in significant strikes (134-67) and, despite a low takedown success rate, the attempts disrupted Lopes’ offensive rhythm. The judges ultimately scored the bout 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47 in favor of Volkanovski.
The opportunity for Volkanovski to reclaim his title arose when Ilia Topuria vacated the belt to move up to lightweight. This opened the door for Volkanovski, whose extensive experience and undeniable legacy earned him the shot at redemption. Lopes, a formidable opponent with a captivating rise through the ranks, proved to be a worthy challenger, but ultimately couldn’t overcome Volkanovski’s tactical brilliance and experience.
Volkanovski’s victory is a testament to his dedication and unwavering focus. He not only reclaimed his title but also set a new benchmark for fighters in his age bracket, inspiring others to pursue their goals regardless of age. With a rejuvenated featherweight division brimming with new talent like Jean Silva, Movsar Evloev, Lerone Murphy, and the recently signed Aaron Pico, Volkanovski’s reign promises to be just as exciting as his previous one. This is a story for the ages, one that will be talked about for years to come.
