Alexander Volkanovski Reveals What Could Finally Force Him Into Retirement

Alexander Volkanovski has built a career on facing pound-for-pound opponents, accepting short-notice fights, and delivering incredible comeback victories. 

He's never been one to discuss retirement, but ahead of his title defense against Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi, the champion has openly shared his thoughts on what lies ahead. 

Alexander Volkanovski Lays Out The Two Outcomes

"If things go terribly wrong, alright… we're done. If things go very well, like the last one, no damage, alright… We'll keep it rolling," Volkanovski said on 10 News Australia. 

Although retiring is not his first thought, the Australian native tried to be as real as possible. "Taking each fight as it goes. I'm just trying to be real with it. But I don't have plans on retiring right now," he concluded. 

It's an honest confession from a champion who has earned the right to set his own terms by building an outstanding career.

Also, the reference to ‘the last one’ carries weight. Volkanovski’s recent victory was against Diego Lopes at UFC 325 in February. Volk walked away with a unanimous decision win and without any significant damage. 

What's at Stake For Volkanovski in His Next Fight 

With eight title fight wins, a 12-win streak, the first Australian UFC champion, five title defenses, reaching the number-one spot on the UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings, and being the oldest UFC champion at 36 and still defending, Volk (28-4) has done it all to earn a spot in the featherweight GOAT conversation.  

Thus, October 24 will be no different for the champion. The Movsar Evloev fight only provides a chance to add one more line to a résumé that needs nothing more. 

If everything goes well and the body cooperates, he continues competing. If it doesn't, he'll have nothing more to prove. In any case, Alexander Volkanovski has already won.