Alexander Volkanovski
{{short description|Australian mixed martial artist (born 1988)}}
{{pp|small=yes}}
{{Use Australian English|date=November 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2022}}
{{Infobox martial artist
| name = Alexander Volkanovski
| nickname = The Great
| image = Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 232.jpg
| caption = Volkanovski in 2018
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=y|1988|9|29}}{{cite web|title=Alexander Volkanovski RECORD: 18–1–0 THE GREAT|url=http://www.fightmetric.com/fighter-details/e1248941344b3288|website=.fightmetric}}
| birth_place = Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| residence = Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| height = {{convert|5|ft|6|in|m|abbr=on}}
| weight_lb = 145
| weight_class = Featherweight (2014–present){{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/athlete/alexander-volkanovski|title=Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski – Official UFC Profile|date=14 September 2018 |publisher=UFC|access-date=22 October 2023}}
Lightweight (2014; 2016; 2023)
Welterweight (2012–2013)
| rank = Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Joe Lopez{{Cite web|last=BjjTribes|date=2021-12-13|title=UFC Champion Alexander Volkanovski gets promoted to BJJ Black Belt|url=https://bjjtribes.com/ufc-champion-alexander-volkanovski-gets-promoted-to-bjj-black-belt/|access-date=2021-12-13|website=BjjTribes|language=en-US}}
| fighting_out_of = Windang, New South Wales, Australia
| team = City Kickboxing
Tiger Muay Thai
Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA
Freestyle Fighting Gym{{cite web |title=Freestyle Fighting Gym |url=http://www.freestylemma.com.au |access-date=8 March 2020}}{{cite web|title=ALEXANDER "THE GREAT" VOLKANOVSKI|url=https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/41705-alex-volkanski|website=Topology}}
| years_active = 2012–present
| box_win = 1
| box_loss =
| mma_kowin = 13
| mma_subwin = 3
| mma_decwin = 11
| mma_koloss = 3
| mma_subloss =
| mma_decloss = 1
| mma_draw =
| mma_nc =
| url = {{URL|alexandervolkanovski.com}}
| boxrec = 896246
| sherdog = 101527
| updated =
}}
Alexander Volkanovski (born 29 September 1988) is an Australian professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Featherweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he is the current and two-time UFC Featherweight Champion. Volkanovski is the second Australian to win a UFC title after Robert Whittaker. He is also a former Australian Fighting Championship (AFC) Featherweight champion. Prior to his UFC debut, Volkanovski competed as a professional boxer in 2015. As of 13 May 2025, he is #7 in the UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings.{{Cite web |last=Holland |first=Jesse |date=2025-04-15 |title=Shavkat Rakhmonov surpasses Kamaru Usman, takes over No. 2 spot in UFC 310 rankings update |url=https://www.mmamania.com/2024/12/10/24317951/shavkat-rakhmonov-surpasses-kamaru-usman-takes-over-no-2-spot-ufc-310-rankings-update-mma |access-date=2024-12-10 |website=MMAmania.com |language=en}} He is considered one of the greatest Featherweights of all time.{{Cite web |title=Who Is the Greatest UFC Featherweight Champion of All Time? |url=https://mmasucka.com/greatest-ufc-featherweight-all-time-2025/ |access-date=2025-02-08 |website=mmasucka.com |language=en-US}}
Background
Volkanovski was born on 29 September 1988, in Wollongong, New South Wales.{{Cite web |last=Gjoncheski |first=Marjan |date=November 16, 2022 |title=Alexander Volkanovski Story – From Concrete Worker To The Best Pound-For-Pound Fighter In The UFC |url=https://theovertimer.com/2022/11/alexander-volkanovski-story-from-concrete-worker-to-the-best-pound-for-pound-fighter-in-the-ufc/ |website=theovertimer.com}} His father was born in the village of Beranci in Yugoslavia, SR Macedonia (now North Macedonia) while his mother is from Greece.{{Cite web|url=https://www.sbs.com.au/yourlanguage/macedonian/en/audiotrack/alexander-great-volkanovski-rugby-league-ufc-fighter|title=From Rugby League to UFC champ: meet Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.athletesvoice.com.au/alex-volkanovski-mick-cronin-medal-to-ufc/#tdHl8OA55Q3U9mOK.97|title = 'Mick Cronin Medal to UFC' by Alex Volkanovski|date = 13 November 2017}} Alex began training in Greco-Roman wrestling at an early age and won a national title twice at the age of 12.{{Cite news|url=http://wrestling.com.au/newsite/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2001_National-Schools_Results-1.pdf|title=2001 National Schools Wrestling Competition|work=Wrestling Australia Inc.|access-date=2018-03-07|archive-date=14 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414192304/https://wrestling.com.au/newsite/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2001_National-Schools_Results-1.pdf|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.flocombat.com/articles/5066349-from-rugby-to-ufc-alexander-volkanovski-just-wins|title=From Rugby League To UFC, Alexander Volkanovski Just Wins - FloCombat|access-date=2017-11-12|language=en-US}} He decided to give up wrestling at the age of 14 and instead focused on a career in rugby league as a front rower.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2017/6/9/15749832/ufc-auckland-alex-volkanovski-transition-rugby-mma-australia-mizuto-hirota-news-interview|title=Volkanovski wants statement with 'savage ground and pound'|work=Bloody Elbow|access-date=2017-11-12|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105010558/https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2017/6/9/15749832/ufc-auckland-alex-volkanovski-transition-rugby-mma-australia-mizuto-hirota-news-interview|url-status=dead}} Volkanovski attended Lake Illawarra High School throughout his teenage years{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com.au/mma/story/_/id/28234665/ufc-alexander-volkanovksi-humble-local-hero-focus-swayed|title=Volkanovksi the humble local hero whose focus can't be swayed|work=ESPN Australia|access-date=2019-09-12}} and worked as a concreter after graduation.{{Cite news|url=https://thewest.com.au/sport/ufc/alex-volkanovski-goes-from-broke-concreter-to-getting-ready-for-ufc-title-challenge-ng-8e85fdb24bed22a59e3e37807d8eae83|title=Alex Volkanovski goes from broke concreter to getting ready for UFC title challenge|work=The West Australian|access-date=2019-01-06}}
He played semi-professional rugby league for the Warilla Gorillas in the Group 7 Rugby League where he was awarded the Mick Cronin Medal in 2010 as the league's best player.{{Cite news|url=https://www.athletesvoice.com.au/alex-volkanovski-mick-cronin-medal-to-ufc/#QeqcfAd3017BQfUU.97|title=Mick Cronin Medal to UFC|last=Volkanovski|first=Alexander|date=13 November 2017|work=athletesvoice.com.au|access-date=14 December 2019|language=en}} He also played a crucial role in Warilla's 2011 Premiership winning season and received the Man of the Match award for his performance in his team's Grand Final victory over Gerringong.{{Cite news|url=http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/4293155/ufc-debut-just-the-start-for-illawarra-hulk-alex-volkanovski/|title=UFC debut just the start for Illawarra 'Hulk' Alex Volkanovski|last=Latifi|first=Agron|date=15 November 2016|work=Illawarra Mercury|access-date=16 June 2017|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.shilomagazine.com.au/en/alex-the-hulk-volkanovski-mma-champion|title=The HULK: Alex Volkanovski Australian Macedonian MMA champion {{!}} AUSTRALIAN MACEDONIAN E-MAGAZINE|work=AUSTRALIAN MACEDONIAN E-MAGAZINE|access-date=16 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620101740/http://www.shilomagazine.com.au/en/alex-the-hulk-volkanovski-mma-champion|archive-date=20 June 2018|url-status=dead}} Volkanovski then decided to quit rugby league at 23 years of age to pursue a professional career in Mixed Martial Arts in the latter half of 2011.{{Cite news|url=http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/4293155/ufc-debut-just-the-start-for-illawarra-hulk-alex-volkanovski/|title=UFC debut just the start for Illawarra 'Hulk' Alex Volkanovski|last=Latifi|first=Agron|date=15 November 2016|work=Illawarra Mercury|access-date=8 June 2017|language=en}} He claims to have watched Ultimate Fighting Championship events since childhood and would often rent UFC VHS tapes from Blockbuster as well as purchase UFC pay per views from 14 years of age.{{Cite news|url=https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/638707/alexs-fighting-career-path-is-set-in-concrete/|title=Alex's fighting career path is set in concrete|last=Keeble|first=Tim|date=10 January 2012|work=Ilawarra Mercury|access-date=6 July 2020|language=en}}
Coach Joe Lopez said Volkanovski started training in MMA at the age of 22 and Greco-Roman wrestling to keep fit during the rugby league off season, where he weighed {{cvt| 97|kg}}.{{cite AV media |date=16 June 2017 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vcmhzw5xps |title=Alex Volkanovski Reveals the Crazy Circumstances He Endured Ahead of UFC Auckland! |publisher=Submission Radio |via=YouTube |access-date=2 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210102161907/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vcmhzw5xps |archive-date=2 January 2021 |url-status=live}} However, he soon realized he had a passion for the sport and wanted to go as far as he could.{{Cite web|url=http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/111724/alex-volkanovski-yet-to-lose-a-cage-bout/|title=Alex Volkanovski yet to lose a cage bout|date=March 2012}} Volkanovski quickly became a good counter striker with a powerful overhand right as well as a fantastic offensive wrestler.{{Cite web|url=https://mmaoddsbreaker.com/news/10504-3ufc-fight-night-101-newcomer-breakdown-alex-volkanovski|title=UFC Fight Night 101 Newcomer Breakdown: Alex Volkanovski|last=Primetown|first=Jay|website=mmaoddsbreaker.com|date=26 November 2016|language=en-gb|access-date=8 June 2017}} He initially competed in multiple amateur fights in the middleweight division as he adjusted from his rugby weight before turning professional and moving down to welterweight, lightweight and ultimately the featherweight division.
{{cquote
|"There are no excuses in fighting. You can be playing a team sport and have a good game, and you can lose. In fighting, it’s all on me. If I go out there and lose, then it’s my fault. I like that. So I know if I fight well, I’m going to win. I definitely love the fact that it’s all on you, and you do what you have to do to win. Each fight is like a grand final in the rugby league."{{Cite news|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/6/10/15765204/from-the-warilla-gorillas-to-ufc-fighter-alexander-volkanovski-finding-success-in-his-second-chapter|title=From the Warilla Gorillas to the UFC, Volkanovski likes his second chapter|work=MMA Fighting|access-date=2017-11-12}}
}}
Volkanovski is based at Freestyle Fighting Gym in Wollongong{{Cite news|url=https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/6115054/this-kids-got-something-it-only-took-a-minute-for-alex-to-prove-he-was-different/|title=Home where the heart is for Alex Volkanovski|work=Illawarra Mercury|access-date=2019-09-12}} but regularly completes training camps at Tiger Muay Thai and Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA in Phuket{{Cite news|url=https://www.tigermuaythai.com/team-tmt-fighter-alex-volkanovski-gets-shot-ufc|title=Team TMT Fighter Alex Volkanovski gets his shot in the UFC|work=tigermuaythai.com|access-date=2019-12-17}}{{Cite web |date=2022-05-06 |title=UFC: Volk's quick turnaround no surprise – 'his work ethic is insane' |url=https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3176825/ufc-alex-volkanovskis-quick-turnaround-should |access-date=2023-07-10 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}} and City Kickboxing in Auckland with fellow UFC fighters, former UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya, Dan Hooker and Kai Kara-France.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=12293662|title=UFC 245: City Kickboxing looking to end 2019 as UFC's best team as Kai Kara-France and Alexander Volkanovski fight|work=The New Zealand Herald |access-date=2019-12-14}} Members of Volkanovski's team have included Eugene Bareman and Craig Jones.{{Cite web |date=2022-04-13 |title=UFC: Volk 'the complete fighter', finally getting due credit says coach |url=https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3174158/ufc-alex-volkanovski-complete-fighter-and |access-date=2023-02-12 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}}
Mixed martial arts career
= Early career =
Starting as an amateur at middleweight and going 4–0 before turning professional, Volkanovski has fought in various MMA organizations in the Oceania region in Asia from 2012 to July 2016 before signing with the UFC. He won a Pacific Xtreme Combat (PXC) title and two Australian Fighting Championship (AFC) Featherweight titles.{{cite web|last1=FNA Staff|title=Australian Fighting Championships 15 Results|url=http://www.fightnewsaustralia.com/australian-fighting-championships-15-results/|website=fight news australia|date=19 March 2016 }}{{cite web|last1=Chris|title=Pacific Xtreme Combat 50 Results|url=http://www.fightnewsaustralia.com/pacific-xtreme-combat-50-results/|website=Fight News Australia|date=4 December 2015 }} Volkanovski amassed a record of 13–1 with 10 straight wins prior to joining the UFC.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Alexander-Volkanovski-101527|title=Alexander|last=Sherdog.com|website=Sherdog}}
=Ultimate Fighting Championship=
Volkanovski made his promotional debut on 26 November 2016, and increased his win streak to 11 with a second-round TKO against Yusuke Kasuya at UFC Fight Night 101.{{cite web|last1=Ho|first1=John Hyon|title=Alexander Volkanovski Grounds and Pounds Yusuke Kasuya in Melbourne|url=http://www.thefightnation.com/alexander-volkanovski-grounds-and-pounds-yusuke-kasuya-in-melbourne/|website=The Fight Nation|publisher=International MMA|access-date=27 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427001418/https://www.thefightnation.com/alexander-volkanovski-grounds-and-pounds-yusuke-kasuya-in-melbourne/|archive-date=27 April 2019|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|last1=Baldwin|first1=Nick|title=UFC Melbourne results: Akhmedov grinds out Noke, Volkanovski wins debut|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2016/11/27/13755218/ufc-melbourne-results-akhmedov-grinds-out-noke-volkanovski-wins-debut-mma-news|website=bloodyelbow|date=27 November 2016|publisher=UFC|access-date=27 November 2016|archive-date=14 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414111201/https://bloodyelbow.com/2016/11/27/13755218/ufc-melbourne-results-akhmedov-grinds-out-noke-volkanovski-wins-debut-mma-news|url-status=dead}} He announced at the post-fight press conference that he would drop from lightweight to featherweight for his next fight.{{cite web|title=Alex Volkanovski plans drop to featherweight following UFC Fight Night 101 victory|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QnIFQeTRos|website=You Tube|publisher=USA TODAY Sports|access-date=27 November 2016}}{{cite web|title=Champions|url=http://afcmma.com.au/champions/|website=Australian Fighting Championship|date=20 April 2022 }}
==Move down to Featherweight==
Volkanovski was expected to face Michel Quiñones on 19 February 2017 at UFC Fight Night 105. However, the bout was scrapped after Quiñones suffered an injury and no replacement could be found.{{cite web|last1=Cruz|first1=Guilherme|title=Alexander Volkanovski vs. Michel Quinones off Sunday's UFC Fight Night card in Halifax 7|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2017/2/14/14608850/alexander-volkanovski-vs-michel-quinones-off-ufc-fight-night-card-halifax|website=mmafighting.com|date=14 February 2017|access-date=14 February 2017}}
Volkanovski returned to Featherweight and faced Mizuto Hirota on 11 June 2017 at UFC Fight Night 110.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/04/alex-volkanovski-meets-mizuto-hirota-at-ufc-fight-night-110-in-new-zealand|title=Alex Volkanovski meets Mizuto Hirota at UFC Fight Night 110 in New Zealand|author=Staff|date=19 April 2017|publisher=mmajunkie.com}} He won the fight via unanimous decision after almost finishing Hirota following a knockdown.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/06/ufc-fight-night-110-results-alex-volkanovski-cruises-to-unanimous-decision-win-vs-mizuto-hirota|title=UFC Fight Night 110 results: Alex Volkanovski cruises to unanimous-decision win vs. Mizuto Hirota|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Ban Fowlkes|access-date=10 June 2017|date=10 June 2017}}
Volkanovski was expected to face Jeremy Kennedy at UFC Fight Night: Werdum vs. Tybura on 19 November 2017, in Sydney, Australia.{{Cite news|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/alex-the-great-volkanovski-to-fight-jeremy-kennedy-at-ufc-fight-night-hunt-vs-tybura/news-story/c0bffaa9cc13e90b5da58d30653fa205/|title=Volkanovski earns UFC Fight Night berth|access-date=2017-08-24}} However, Kennedy pulled out of the fight on 5 October, citing a back injury{{cite news|url=https://mma-today.com/exclusive-jeremy-kennedy-suffers-back-injury-ufc-sydney|title=Jeremy Kennedy suffers back injury; out of UFC Sydney|publisher=mma-today.com|author=Nolan King|date=2017-10-05|access-date=2017-10-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171006212409/https://mma-today.com/exclusive-jeremy-kennedy-suffers-back-injury-ufc-sydney|archive-date=6 October 2017|url-status=dead}} and was replaced by Humberto Bandenay.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/10/jeremy-kennedy-out-alex-volkanovski-humerto-bandenay-ufc-sydney|title=Jeremy Kennedy out, Alex Volkanovski meets Humberto Bandenay at UFC-Sydney|date=2017-10-12|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2017-11-08|language=en-US}} In November 2017, it was announced that Bandenay would delay his UFC debut at this event due to undisclosed reasons, and was replaced by Drex Zamboanga.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/11/humberto-bandenay-out-ufc-sydney-against-alex-volkanovski|title=Humberto Bandenay out at UFC-Sydney; featherweight sought for Alex Volkanovski|date=2017-11-08|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2017-11-08|language=en-US}} In turn, Zamboanga pulled out of the fight due to visa issues and was replaced by promotional newcomer Shane Young.{{Cite web|url=http://mmadna.nl/shane-young-maakt-short-notice-debuut-tegen-alexander-volkanovski-tijdens-ufc-sydney/|title=Shane Young maakt short notice debuut tegen Alexander Volkanovski tijdens UFC Sydney|author=Marcel Dorff|website=mmadna.nl|date=12 November 2017|language=nl|access-date=2022-05-06}} The bout proceeded at a catchweight of 150 pounds.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/11/ufc-fight-night-121-sydney-early-weigh-in-results-live-video-stream|title=UFC Fight Night 121 official weigh-in results: Headliner set, but four fighters heavy|date=2017-11-18|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2017-11-18|language=en-US}} Volkanovski won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/11/ufc-fight-night-121-results-alex-volkanovski-dominates-short-notice-opponent-shane-young|title=UFC Fight Night 121 results: Alex Volkanovski dominates short-notice opponent Shane Young|date=2017-11-19|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2017-11-19|language=en-US}}
The bout with Kennedy was rescheduled and took place on 11 February 2018 at UFC 221.{{cite news|url=https://mma-today.com/exclusive-jeremy-kennedy-vs-alex-volkanovski-added-ufc-221-perth|title=Jeremy Kennedy vs. Alex Volkanovski added to UFC 221 in Perth|publisher=mma-today.com|author=Nolan King|date=2017-12-21|access-date=2017-12-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222104850/https://mma-today.com/exclusive-jeremy-kennedy-vs-alex-volkanovski-added-ufc-221-perth|archive-date=22 December 2017|url-status=dead}} He won the fight via technical knockout.{{Cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2018/02/ufc-221-results-alex-volkanovski-destroys-jeremy-kennedy-with-second-round-tko|title=UFC 221 results: Alex Volkanovski destroys Jeremy Kennedy with second-round TKO|date=2018-02-11|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-02-11|language=en-US}}
Volkanovski faced Darren Elkins on 14 July 2018 at UFC Fight Night 133.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmamad.com/darren-elkins-vs-alexander-volkanovski-added-to-ufc-fight-night-133-in-idaho/|title=Darren Elkins vs Alexander Volkanovski added to UFC Fight Night 133 in Idaho|website=mmamad.com|author=Dale Jordan|date=2018-05-09|access-date=2018-05-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180510014140/https://www.mmamad.com/darren-elkins-vs-alexander-volkanovski-added-to-ufc-fight-night-133-in-idaho/|archive-date=10 May 2018|url-status=dead}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite news|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/07/ufc-fight-night-133-boise-results-alex-volkanovski-tops-gritty-darren-elkins|title=UFC Fight Night 133 results: Alex Volkanovski tops typically gritty Darren Elkins|date=2018-07-15|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-07-15|language=en-US}}
Volkanovski faced Chad Mendes on 29 December 2018 at UFC 232.{{Cite news|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/11/chad-mendes-vs-alex-volkanovski-ufc-232-featherweight-las-vegas|title=Chad Mendes vs. Alex Volkanovski joins UFC 232 lineup in Las Vegas|date=2018-11-06|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-11-07|language=en-US}} He won the fight via technical knockout in round two after surviving two knockdowns himself.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/ufc-232-results-highlights-alexander-volkanovski-stops-chad-mendes-in-all-out-battle/|title=UFC 232 results, highlights: Alexander Volkanovski stops Chad Mendes in all-out battle|website=CBSSports.com|date=30 December 2018 |language=en|access-date=2018-12-30}} This fight earned him the Fight of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-232-Bonuses-Nunes-Volkanovski-Mendes-Hall-Capture-3650K-Awards-147623|title=UFC 232 Bonuses: Nunes, Volkanovski, Mendes, Hall Capture $50K Awards|last=Sherdog.com|website=Sherdog|access-date=2018-12-30}}
Volkanovski faced former featherweight champion José Aldo at UFC 237 on 11 May 2019.{{Cite web|url=https://thebodylockmma.com/ufc/jose-aldo-vs-alexander-volkanovski-scheduled-for-ufc-237/|title=Jose Aldo vs. Alexander Volkanovski scheduled for UFC 237|last=Nichols|first=Jake|date=2019-03-05|website=The Body Lock|language=en-US|access-date=2019-03-05}} He won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2019/05/12/ufc-237-results-alexander-volkanovski-dominates-jose-aldo/|title=UFC 237 Results: Alexander Volkanovski Dominates Jose Aldo|last=Evanoff|first=Josh|date=2019-05-12|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US|access-date=2019-05-12}}
= UFC Featherweight Champion =
== Volkanovski vs. Holloway ==
Volkanovski faced Max Holloway on 14 December 2019, for the UFC Featherweight Championship at UFC 245.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/9/21/20877616/max-holloway-vs-alexander-volkanovski-set-for-ufc-245|title=Max Holloway vs. Alexander Volkanovski set for UFC 245|last=Lee|first=Alexander K.|date=2019-09-21|website=MMA Fighting|language=en|access-date=2019-09-22}} Volkanovski won the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/12/ufc-245-results-alexander-volkanovski-dethrones-max-holloway-captures-ufc-featherweight-belt|title=UFC 245 results: Alexander Volkanovski dethrones Max Holloway, captures UFC featherweight belt|date=2019-12-15|website=MMA Junkie|language=en|access-date=2019-12-15}}{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/12/15/21022505/ufc-245-results-alexander-volkanovski-dethrones-max-holloway-wins-title-unanimous-decision|title=UFC 245 results: Alexander Volkanovski dethrones Max Holloway, wins featherweight title by unanimous decision|author=Damon Martin|publisher=mmafighting.com|date=15 December 2019}}
== Volkanovski vs. Holloway 2 ==
Volkanovski made his first title defense in a rematch against Max Holloway on 11 July 2020 at UFC 251.{{Cite web|last=Armstrong|first=Megan|title=Report: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Max Holloway Rematch Targeted for UFC 251|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2895326-report-alexander-volkanovski-vs-max-holloway-rematch-targeted-for-ufc-251|access-date=2020-07-16|website=Bleacher Report|language=en}} He won the fight via split decision.{{Cite web|last=Fuentes|first=Jon|date=2020-07-12|title=UFC 251 Results: Alexander Volkanovski Retains Over Max Holloway In Close Scrap|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2020/07/12/ufc-251-results-alexander-volkanovski-vs-max-holloway/|access-date=2020-07-12|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US}} This outcome was controversial amongst media outlets, with 18 out of 27 media scores giving it to Holloway,{{Cite web|last=Fuentes|first=Jon|date=2020-07-12|title=Pros React To Controversial Alexander Volkanovski Win Over Max Holloway At UFC 251|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2020/07/12/pros-react-controversial-alexander-volkanovski-win-max-holloway-ufc-251/|access-date=2020-07-16|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|last=Lee|first=Alexander K.|date=2020-07-14|title=Robbery Review: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Max Holloway at UFC 251|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/7/14/21322881/robbery-review-alexander-volkanovski-vs-max-holloway-at-ufc-251|access-date=2020-07-16|website=MMA Fighting|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Alexander Volkanovski def. Max Holloway:: UFC 251:: MMA Decisions|url=http://mmadecisions.com/decision/11126/Alexander-Volkanovski-vs-Max-Holloway|access-date=2020-07-16|website=mmadecisions.com}} mixed martial arts personalities such as UFC president Dana White,{{Cite web|last=Coutinho|first=Reubyn|date=2020-07-12|title="We Got Some Bad Judging"- Dana White Not Happy With Alexander Volkanovski vs Max Holloway Result|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-251-news-we-got-some-bad-judging-dana-white-not-happy-with-alexander-volkanovski-vs-max-holloway-result-fight-island/|access-date=2020-07-16|website=EssentiallySports|language=en-US}} former referee and creator of the rules system John McCarthy,{{Cite web|last=Fernando Quiles Jr|date=2020-07-14|title=John McCarthy Thinks Max Holloway Beat Alex Volkanovski At UFC 251|url=https://www.mmanews.com/john-mccarthy-thinks-max-holloway-beat-alex-volkanovski-at-ufc-251/|access-date=2020-07-16|website=MMA News|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|last=Mayenkar|first=Shantanu|date=2020-07-13|title="Your Employer Has the Right to Remove You" - Legendary MMA Referee Goes off on UFC Judge|url=https://www.essentiallysports.com/ufc-news-fight-island-ufc-251-your-employer-has-the-right-to-remove-you-legendary-mma-referee-john-mccarthy-goes-off-on-ufc-judge-mark-collet/|access-date=2020-07-16|website=EssentiallySports|language=en-US}} and multiple mixed martial artists.{{Cite web|date=2020-07-12|title=Twitter reacts to Alexander Volkanovski's narrow title defense against Max Holloway at UFC 251|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/07/twitter-reacts-alexander-volkanovski-title-defense-max-holloway-ufc-251|access-date=2020-07-16|website=MMA Junkie|language=en}}
== Volkanovski vs. Ortega ==
Volkanovski was scheduled to make his second title defense against Brian Ortega on 27 March 2021 at UFC 260.{{Citation|title=Sechstes Kapitel: Kolonialisten vs. Kolonisierte – Europäer vs. Lateinamerikaner|url=http://dx.doi.org/10.3726/978-3-653-03146-1/9|work=Alexander von Humboldts Metaphysik der Erde|year=2013|publisher=Peter Lang|doi=10.3726/978-3-653-03146-1/9|isbn=978-3-631-63170-6|access-date=2021-01-17|url-access=subscription}} However, the fight was canceled due to COVID-19 protocols.{{Cite web|last=Martin|first=Damon|date=2021-03-20|title=Alexander Volkanovski out of UFC 260 due to COVID-19 protocols, fight against Brian Ortega to be rescheduled|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/3/20/22342440/alexander-volkanovski-out-of-ufc-260-due-covid-19-protocols-fight-against-brian-ortega-rescheduled|access-date=2021-03-21|website=MMA Fighting|language=en}}
Volkanovski later tweeted that he tested positive for COVID-19.{{cite tweet |last=Volkanovski |first=Alex |user=alexvolkanovski |number=1373468080592986119 |date=20 March 2021 |title=https://t.co/TFFvTXe08U |language=en |access-date=2 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210322015410/https://twitter.com/alexvolkanovski/status/1373468080592986119 |archive-date=22 March 2021 |url-status=live}}
On 2 April 2021, it was announced that Brian Ortega and Volkanovski would be the coaches for The Ultimate Fighter 29 at ESPN+ and the show featured bantamweight and middleweight contestants.{{Cite web|date=2021-04-03|title=Volkanovski, Ortega named coaches for next TUF|url=https://www.espn.com.au/mma/story/_/id/31185553/alexander-volkanovski-brian-ortega-named-coaches-ultimate-fighter|access-date=2021-04-03|website=ESPN.com|language=en}}
Volkanovski faced Brian Ortega on 25 September 2021, at UFC 266 for the UFC Featherweight Championship.{{Cite web|date=2021-06-09|title=Alexander Volkanovski vs. Brian Ortega Official For UFC 266|url=https://www.mmanews.com/2021/06/alexander-volkanovski-vs-brian-ortega-official-for-ufc-266-2/|access-date=2021-06-14|website=MMA News|language=en-US}} He won the fight via unanimous decision. Volkanovski received universal praise for escaping multiple submission attempts and persevering.{{Cite web|last=Anderson|first=Jay|date=2021-09-26|title=UFC 266 Results: Alexander Volkanovski Defeats Brian Ortega in All-Out War|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2021/09/26/ufc-266-results-alexander-volkanovski-vs-brian-ortega/|access-date=2021-09-26|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US}} This fight earned him the Fight of the Night award.{{Cite web|date=2021-09-26|title=UFC 266 bonuses: Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega's classic title fight among winners|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/ufc-266-bonuses-alexander-volkanovski-and-brian-ortegas-classic-title-fight-among-winners|access-date=2021-09-26|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}}
== Volkanovski vs. The Korean Zombie ==
Volkanovski was scheduled to face Max Holloway for a third time on 5 March 2022, at UFC 272.{{Cite web|last=Martin|first=Damon|date=2022-01-05|title=Alexander Volkanovski vs. Max Holloway 3, Aljamain Sterling vs. Petr Yan 2 booked for UFC 272|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/1/5/22869471/alexander-volkanovski-vs-max-holloway-3-aljamain-sterling-vs-petr-yan-2-booked-for-ufc-272|access-date=2022-01-06|website=MMA Fighting|language=en}} However, a day after the announcement, Holloway was forced to pull from the event due to injury.{{Cite web|date=2022-01-07|title=Max Holloway injury takes him out of UFC 272 trilogy fight vs. Alexander Volkanovski|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/01/ufc-272-max-holloway-injured-out-vs-alexander-volkanovski-trilogy-title-fight|access-date=2022-01-07|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}} Holloway was replaced by Chan Sung Jung and the title bout was moved to UFC 273 on 9 April 2022.{{cite web|url=https://www.cbssports.com/mma/news/ufc-273-fight-card-alexander-volkanovski-vs-korean-zombie-aljamain-sterling-vs-petr-yan-2-set-for-april/|title=UFC 273 fight card: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Korean Zombie, Aljamain Sterling vs. Petr Yan 2 set for April|work=CBS Sports|author=Shakiel Mahjouri, Brent Brookhouse|date=11 January 2022|access-date=11 January 2022}} After knocking Jung down multiple times, Volkanovski won the fight via TKO in the fourth round.{{Cite web |last=Law |first=Eddie |date=2022-04-10 |title=UFC 273 Results: Alexander Volkanovski Dominates Zombie To TKO Victory |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/04/10/ufc-273-results-alexander-volkanovski-vs-the-korean-zombie/ |access-date=2022-04-10 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}} The win earned him the Performance of the Night award.{{Cite web |last=Newswire |first=MMA Fighting |date=2022-04-10 |title=UFC 273 post-fight bonuses: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Gilbert Burns wins 'Fight of the Night' |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/4/10/23018702/ufc-273-post-fight-bonuses-khamzat-chimaev-vs-gilbert-burns-wins-fight-of-the-night |access-date=2022-04-10 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}} The fight also earned him second place in the Crypto.com "Fan Bonus of the Night" award.
== Volkanovski vs. Holloway 3 ==
The trilogy bout against Holloway was rescheduled at UFC 276 on 2 July 2022.{{Cite web|date=May 5, 2022|title=Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway agree to trilogy at UFC 276|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/05/ufc-276-news-alexander-volkanovski-vs-max-holloway-trilogy-targeted-international-fight-week|access-date=May 5, 2022|website=MMA Junkie|language=en-US}} Volkanovski won the bout via unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the fight 50–45.{{Cite web|last=Doherty|first=Dan|date=2022-07-03|title=UFC 276: Alexander Volkanovski Dominates Max Holloway, Puts On Striking Clinic|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/07/03/ufc-276-alexander-volkanovski-vs-max-holloway/|access-date=2022-07-03|website=Cageside Press|language=en-US}} This win earned him the Crypto.com Fan Bonus of the Night second-place award, which paid the bitcoin equivalent of US$20,000.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmarocks.pl/mma-news/kryptowalutowe-bonusy-po-ufc-276-najwieksza-nagroda-powedrowala-do-israela-adesanyi|title=Crypto bonuses after UFC 276. The biggest prize went to Israel Adesanya|publisher=mmarocks.pl|author=Michał Tkaczuk|date=2022-07-04|access-date=2022-07-04}} {{in lang|pl}}
== Volkanovski vs. Makhachev ==
Volkanovski moved up a weight class to challenge Islam Makhachev for the UFC Lightweight Championship on 12 February 2023 at UFC 284.{{Cite web |last=Heck |first=Mike |date=2022-11-12 |title=Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski lightweight title fight official for UFC 284 |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/11/12/23455198/islam-makhachev-vs-alexander-volkanovski-lightweight-title-fight-official-for-ufc-284 |access-date=2022-11-12 |website=MMAFighting.com |language=en}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.{{Cite web |last1=Martin |last2=Damon |date=2023-02-12 |title=Islam Makhachev fends off challenge from Alexander Volkanovski to defend title in UFC 284 main event |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/2/12/23596255/islam-makhachev-fends-off-challenge-from-alexander-volkanovski-to-defend-title-in-ufc-284-main-event |access-date=2023-02-12 |website=MMAFighting.com |language=en-US}} This fight earned him the Fight of the Night award.{{Cite web |title=UFC 284 post-fight bonuses: Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski awarded 'Fight of the Night' |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/2/12/23596289/ufc-284-post-fight-bonuses-islam-makhachev-vs-alexander-volkanovski-awarded-fight-of-the-night |access-date=2023-02-12 |website=MMAFighting.com |date=12 February 2023 |language=en-US}}
== Volkanovski vs. Rodríguez ==
Volkanovski returned to featherweight and faced interim featherweight champion Yair Rodríguez in a title unification bout for the UFC Featherweight Championship on 8 July 2023 at UFC 290.{{Cite web |last=Holland |first=Jesse |date=2023-04-06 |title=Alexander Volkanovski vs Yair Rodriguez title fight on tap for UFC 290 in July |url=https://www.mmamania.com/2023/4/6/23672940/alexander-volkanovski-vs-yair-rodriguez-title-fight-tap-ufc-290-july-mma |access-date=2023-04-07 |website=MMAmania.com |language=en}} He won the fight via TKO in round three.{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2023-07-09 |title=UFC 290: Alexander Volkanovski Stops Yair Rodriguez in Third, Unifies Featherweight Title |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/07/09/ufc-290-alexander-volkanovski-vs-yair-rodriguez/ |access-date=2023-07-09 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}
== Volkanovski vs. Makhachev 2 ==
Volkanovski was next scheduled to face Ilia Topuria on 20 January 2024 to defend his UFC Featherweight Championship at UFC 297.{{Cite news |title=Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria set for UFC 297 - MMAWeekly.com {{!}} UFC and MMA News, Results, Rumors, and Videos |language=en |work=MMAWeekly.com {{!}} UFC and MMA News, Results, Rumors, and Videos |url=https://www.mmaweekly.com/news/alexander-volkanovski-vs-ilia-topuria-set-for-ufc-297 |access-date=2023-10-10}} However, before that bout took place, Volkanovski was tapped to step in on 10 days notice to face UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev in a rematch, on 21 October 2023, at UFC 294, as a replacement for an injured Charles Oliveira.{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Damon |date=2023-10-10 |title=Charles Oliveira out; Alexander Volkanovski now faces Islam Makhachev in UFC 294 main event |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/10/10/23912292/charles-oliveira-out-alexander-volkanovski-now-faces-islam-makhachev-in-ufc-294-main-event |access-date=2023-10-11 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}} He lost the fight via head kick knockout in round one.{{Cite web |title=UFC 294 results: Makhachev KOs Volkanovski, Chimaev tops Usman |url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/38705037/ufc-294-islam-makhachev-vs-alexander-volkanovski-fight-live-results-analysis |website=espn.com |date=21 October 2023 |language=en}}
== Volkanovski vs. Topuria ==
Following the short notice rematch with Makhachev, the bout with Ilia Topuria was initially expected to continue forward and take place on its original date of 20 January 2024 at UFC 297.{{Cite web |title='Love it': UFC boss confirms next fight for Volk … and Aussies won't have to wait long |language=en |website=www.foxsports.com.au |date=21 October 2023 |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/ufc/love-it-ufc-boss-confirms-next-fight-for-volk-and-aussies-wont-have-to-wait-long/news-story/db6cf6c16c8c6d99d10c62b3b10e430a}} However, it was later pushed back one month to headline UFC 298 on 17 February 2024 instead.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmanews.com/.amp/news/alexander-volkanovski-ilia-topuria-title-headlines-ufc-298|title=Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria Featherweight Title Bout Headlines UFC 298|publisher=mmanews.com|author=Colby Faria|date=2023-11-06|access-date=2023-11-06}} Volkanovski lost the championship by knockout in the second round.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2024/02/18/ufc-298-ilia-topuria-wins-featherweight-gold-with-thunderous-ko-of-alexander-volkanovski/|title=UFC 298: Ilia Topuria Wins Featherweight Gold with Thunderous KO of Alexander Volkanovski|publisher=Cageside Press|author=Jay Anderson|date=2024-02-18|access-date=2024-02-18}}
== Volkanovski vs. Lopes ==
With Topuria vacating the title, Volkanovski faced Diego Lopes for the vacant UFC Featherweight Championship on 12 April 2025 at UFC 314.{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2025/02/ufc-314-fight-card-volkanovski-vs-lopes|title=UFC 314 headlined by Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes title bout with Ilia Topuria vacating|publisher=mmajunkie.usatoday.com|author=Nolan King|date=2025-02-19|access-date=2025-02-19}} He won the fight by unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2025/04/13/alexander-volkanovski-becomes-two-time-champion-decisions-lopes/|title=Alexander Volkanovski Becomes Two-Time Champion, Decisions Lopes|publisher=cagesidepress.com|author=Eddie Law|date=2025-04-13|access-date=2025-04-13}} This fight earned him another Fight of the Night award.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2025/4/13/24406358/bonuses-jean-silva-picks-up-extra-50k-for-dog-walking-bryce-mitchell-ufc-314-espn-mma-miami|title=Bonuses! Jean Silva cashes extra $50k for dog walking Bryce Mitchell - UFC 314|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Andrew Richardson|date=2025-04-13|access-date=2025-04-13}}
Professional boxing career
Volkanovski has a single boxing bout, which was a Super welterweight bout he won by unanimous decision in four rounds against Dillon Bargero.{{cite web|website=Boxrec|url=https://boxrec.com/en/event/712865/1971810|title=Alexander Volkanovski v Dillon Bargero|access-date=27 May 2020}}
Personal life
Volkanovski married his wife Emma on 12 October 2012; they have three daughters and as of March 2025, they are expecting a fourth daughter.{{Cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/espnmma/p/DHELLvoRaze|title=Volkanovski’s face after finding out he’s having daughters is incredible|publisher=instagram.com|author=ESPN MMA|date=2025-03-13|access-date=2025-03-14}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2016/10/26/mma-fighter-alex-hulk-volkanovski-aiming-world-title|title=MMA fighter Alex 'The Hulk' Volkanovski aiming for world title|work=News|access-date=2017-11-12|language=en}} His eldest daughter Ariana was born in 2015; his second daughter Arlie was born in 2017, and his third daughter Reign was born in 2023.{{Cite web|url=https://www.telecomasia.net/news/mma/volkanovski-welcomes-his-third-daughter/|title=Volkanovski Welcomes His Third Daughter|publisher=telecomasia.net|author=Marina Magomedova|date=2023-08-30|access-date=2025-03-13}}
He appeared as a coach in Malaysia Invasion, an amateur MMA reality show.{{Cite news|url=http://www.shilomagazine.com.au/en/alex-the-hulk-volkanovski-mma-champion|title=The HULK: Alex Volkanovski Australian Macedonian MMA champion {{!}} AUSTRALIAN MACEDONIAN E-MAGAZINE|work=AUSTRALIAN MACEDONIAN E-MAGAZINE|access-date=8 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620101740/http://www.shilomagazine.com.au/en/alex-the-hulk-volkanovski-mma-champion|archive-date=20 June 2018|url-status=dead}} Because of his paternal Macedonian and maternal Greek heritage, he uses the nickname "The Great" in reference to Alexander the Great, claiming that he had "a Macedonian father and a Greek mother", similar to himself.{{Cite news|url=https://nocautenarede.com.br/exclusive-interview-with-ufc-featherweight-world-champion-alexander-volkanovski/|title=Kaue Macedo exclusive interview with UFC featherweight world champion Alexander Volkanovski|work=News|access-date=2020-06-07|language=en}}
Volkanovski has his own YouTube channel.{{Cite web |title=Alexander Volkanovski - YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/@AlexVolkanovskiOfficial?si=dgVLHaTEin3xAi7F |access-date=2023-11-06 |website=www.youtube.com}}
Championships and accomplishments
=Mixed martial arts=
- Ultimate Fighting Championship
- UFC Featherweight Championship (Two times, Current)
- Five successful title defenses (first reign)
- Second most title fight wins in UFC Featherweight division history (7) {{small|(behind José Aldo)}}
- First Australian-born fighter to win a UFC championship{{Cite news |agency=Australian Associated Press |date=2019-12-15 |title=Alex Volkanovski becomes first Australian-born fighter to win UFC title |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/dec/15/alex-volkanovski-becomes-first-australian-born-fighter-to-win-ufc-title |access-date=2024-01-27 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}
- Fight of the Night (Four times) {{small|vs. Chad Mendes, Brian Ortega, Islam Makhachev 1 and Diego Lopes}}
- Performance of the Night (One time) {{small|vs. Chan Sung Jung}}
- Second longest win streak in UFC Featherweight division history (11){{cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/?fighter_status=0&weight_class=FTW|title=UFC Stats - Featherweight Division|date=October 29, 2022|author=UFC.com|publisher=UFC}}
- Highest striking differential in UFC Featherweight division history (3.09)
- Longest average fight time in UFC Featherweight division history (17:31)
- Third most significant strikes landed in UFC Featherweight division history (1525)
- Fourth most total strikes landed in UFC Featherweight division history (1726)
- Third highest significant strike percentage in UFC Featherweight division history (56.5%)
- Fourth most strikes landed per minute in UFC Featherweight division history (6.69)
- Most leg kicks landed in a fight in UFC Featherweight division history (75 vs Max Holloway 1){{cite web|url=http://statleaders.ufc.com/en/fight?weight_class=FTW|title=UFC Stats - Featherweight Division - Fight|date=June 20, 2023|author=UFC.com|publisher=UFC}}
- Second most leg kicks landed in a fight in UFC Featherweight division history (67 vs Max Holloway 2)
- Most total leg strikes landed in a fight in UFC Featherweight division history (81 vs Jose Aldo)
- Second most total leg strikes landed in a fight in UFC Featherweight division history (75 vs Max Holloway 1)
- Third most total leg strikes landed in a fight in UFC Featherweight division history (67 vs Max Holloway 2)
- UFC Men's Pound-For-Pound No. 1 in 2022 & 2023
- UFC Honors Awards
- 2021: President's Choice Fight of the Year Nominee {{small|vs. Brian Ortega}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ufc-honors-2021-dana-white-presidential-awards|title=UFC Honors 2021 Presidential Awards Nominees|publisher=ufc.com|author=Zac Pacleb|date=2022-01-13|access-date=2025-01-13}}
- 2023: President's Choice Fight of the Year Winner {{small|vs. Islam Makhachev}} 1{{Cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240114155314/https://www.ufc.com/honors/presidential-choice-award|title=UFC Honors President's Choice Awards 2023|publisher=ufc.com|author=UFC Staff|date=2024-01-14|access-date=2025-01-13}}
- UFC.com Awards
- 2019: Top 10 Fighter of the Year{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-fighters-2019|title=Ten Best – The Fighters of 2019 (No Rankings This Year)|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=January 5, 2020|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
- 2021: Ranked #2 Fight of the Year {{small|vs. Brian Ortega}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-fights-2021-gaethje-chandler-oliveira-holloway-volkanovski|title=THE TEN BEST FIGHTS OF 2021|date=December 26, 2021|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
- 2022: Fighter of the Year{{cite web|url=
https://www.ufc.com/news/fighters-2022-ufccom-awards-volkanovski-makhachev-edwards-sterling-pereira|title=The Fighters - 2022 UFC.com Awards|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=December 25, 2022|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
- 2023: Fight of the Year vs. Islam Makhachev 1{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/fights-2023-ufc-com-awards-grasso-rakhmonov-makhachev-hooker-gaethje-hill-pantoja|title=THE FIGHTS - THE 2023 UFC.COM AWARDS|date=December 23, 2023|author=UFC Staff|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
- Crypto.com
- Fan Bonus of the Night {{small|vs. Chan Sung Jung}}
- Australian Fighting Championship
- Australian Fighting Championship Featherweight Champion (one time; former)
- One successful title defense
- Cage Conquest
- Cage Conquest Welterweight Champion
- Pacific Xtreme Combat
- PXC Featherweight Champion
- Roshambo MMA
- Roshambo MMA Lightweight Champion
- Roshambo MMA Welterweight Champion
- Wollongong Wars
- Wollongong Wars Lightweight Champion
- CombatPress.com
- 2019 Breakout Fighter of the Year{{cite web|url=https://combatpress.com/2020/01/combat-press-2019-mma-awards-breakout-fighter-of-the-year-alex-volkanovski/|title=Combat Press 2019 MMA Awards: Breakout Fighter of the Year – Alex Volkanovski|author=Bryan Henderson|publisher=combatpress.com|date=15 January 2020}}
- World MMA Awards
- 2019 – July 2020 Upset of the Year vs. Max Holloway at UFC 245{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/amanda-nunes-israel-adesanya-jorge-masvidal-pace-major-winners-at-world-mma-awards|title=Amanda Nunes, Israel Adesanya, Jorge Masvidal pace major winners at World MMA Awards|date=27 December 2020|work=MMAjunkie.com}}
- 2022 Charles 'Mask' Lewis Fighter of the Year{{cite web|author=MMA Fighting Newswire|date=2022-12-09|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/12/8/23499496/2022-world-mma-awards-results|title=2022 World MMA Awards Results|publisher=mmafighting.com|access-date=17 December 2022}}
- 2022 International Fighter of the Year
- 2023 Fight of the Year vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 284{{cite web|author=Bryan Tucker|date=2023-12-14|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/12/14/24000708/world-mma-awards-2023-results|title=World MMA Awards 2023 Results|publisher=mmafighting.com|access-date=15 December 2023}}
- MMAjunkie.com
- 2021 September Fight of the Month vs. Brian Ortega{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/fight-of-the-month-september-2021-alexander-volkanovski-brian-ortega-ufc-266|title=MMA Junkie's 'Fight of the Month' for September: UFC 266 delivers in a big way|author=Mike Bohn|date=5 October 2021|work=MMAjunkie.com}}
- 2023 Fight of the Year vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 284{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/2023-mma-fight-of-the-year-islam-makhachev-vs-alexander-volkanovski-decision-ufc-284-australia|title=MMA Junkie's 2023 Fight of the Year: Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski|date=January 5, 2024|author=Mike Bohn|work=MMAjunkie.com}}
- ESPN
- 2021 Fight of the Year vs. Brian Ortega{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/32929579/kamaru-usman-julianna-pena-highlight-mma-year-top-fighters-fight-finish-moments-2021|title=Kamaru Usman, Julianna Peña highlight MMA's year: The top fighters, fight, finish and moments of 2021|date=28 December 2021|work=ESPN|author=Brett Okamoto}}
- 2023 Fight of the Year vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 284{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/39155208/mma-2023-awards-best-fighter-finish-prospect-knockout-more|title=MMA 2023 awards: The best fighters, KO, prospect and more|date=December 21, 2023|work=ESPN}}
- MMA Mania
- 2021 Fight of the Year vs. Brian Ortega{{cite web|url=https://www.mmamania.com/2021/12/25/22838982/ufc-mma-fights-of-the-year-2021-top-5-list|title=UFC/MMA 'Fights of the Year' 2021 - Top 5 List|date=25 December 2021|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Patrick L. Stumberg}}
- MMA Sucka
- 2021 Fight of the Year vs. Brian Ortega{{cite web|url=https://mmasucka.com/2022/01/04/2021-mma-sucka-year-end-awards/|title=2021 MMA Sucka Year End Awards|author=Andrew Harbaugh|date=4 January 2022|website=mmasucka.com}}
- BT Sport
- 2022 Fighter of the Year{{cite tweet|number=1608526532481368066|date=December 29, 2022|title= Male Fighter of the Year - Alexander Volkanovski🏆|user=btsportufc|work=BT Sport}}
- Cageside Press
- 2022 Fighter of the Year{{cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/01/03/mma-2022-year-in-review-fighter-of-the-year/|title=MMA 2022 Year in Review: Fighter of the Year|author=Staff|date=3 January 2022|website=cagesidepress.com}}
- 2023 Fight of the Year vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 284{{cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2024/01/04/mma-2023-year-in-review-fight-of-the-year/|title=MMA 2023 Year in Review: Fight of the Year|date=January 4, 2024|publisher=cagesidepress.com}}
- Sherdog
- 2023 Fight of the Year {{small|vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 284}}{{Cite web |last=Sherdog.com |title=Sherdog's 2023 Fight of the Year |url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/Sherdogs-2023-Fight-of-the-Year-192107 |access-date=2023-12-26 |website=Sherdog |language=en}}
- MMA Fighting
- 2023 Fight of the Year vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 284{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/12/27/24014066/mma-fightings-2023-fight-of-the-year-islam-makhachev-vs-alexander-volkanovski-1|title=MMA Fighting's 2023 Fight of the Year: Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski 1|date=December 27, 2023|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Alexander K. Lee}}
- Wrestling Observer Newsletter
- Most Outstanding Fighter of the Year (2022){{cite web |last1=Meltzer |first1=Dave |title=February 27, 2023, Observer Newsletter: 2022 Observer Awards issue |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/newsletters/wrestling-observer-newsletter/february-27-2023-observer-newsletter-2022-observer-awards-issue|website=Figure4Weekly |date=February 24, 2023 |publisher=Wrestling Observer Newsletter |access-date=28 February 2023}}
- 2023 MMA Match of the Year {{small|vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 284}}{{cite web |last1=Meltzer |first1=Dave |title=February 26, 2024 Observer Newsletter: 2023 Observer Awards issue |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/newsletters/wrestling-observer-newsletter/february-26-2024-observer-newsletter-2023-observer-awards-issue |work=Wrestling Observer Newsletter |date=23 February 2024 |access-date=February 23, 2024}}
=Amateur wrestling=
Mixed martial arts record
{{MMArecordbox
|ko-wins=13
|sub-wins=3
|dec-wins=11
|ko-losses=3
|sub-losses=
|dec-losses=1
}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|27–4
|Decision (unanimous)
|{{dts|2025|April|12|format=dmy}}
|align=center|5
|align=center|5:00
|Miami, Florida, United States
|{{small|Won the vacant UFC Featherweight Championship. Fight of the Night.}}
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|align=center|26–4
|KO (punch)
|{{dts|2024|February|17|format=dmy}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|3:32
|Anaheim, California, United States
|{{small|Lost the UFC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|align=center|26–3
|KO (head kick and punches)
|{{dts|2023|October|21|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|3:06
|Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
|{{small|For the UFC Lightweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|26–2
|TKO (punches)
|{{dts|2023|July|8|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|4:19
|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
|{{small|Defended and unified the UFC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|align=center|25–2
|Decision (unanimous)
|{{dts|2023|February|12|format=dmy}}
|align=center|5
|align=center|5:00
|Perth, Australia
|{{small|For the UFC Lightweight Championship. Fight of the Night.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|25–1
|Decision (unanimous)
|{{dts|2022|July|2|format=dmy}}
|align=center|5
|align=center|5:00
|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
|{{small|Defended the UFC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|24–1
|TKO (punches)
|{{dts|2022|April|9|format=dmy}}
|align=center|4
|align=center|0:45
|Jacksonville, Florida, United States
|{{small|Defended the UFC Featherweight Championship. Performance of the Night.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|23–1
|Decision (unanimous)
|{{dts|2021|September|25|format=dmy}}
|align=center|5
|align=center|5:00
|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
|{{small|Defended the UFC Featherweight Championship. Fight of the Night.}}
|-
|{{yes2}} Win
|align=center|22–1
|Decision (split)
|{{dts|2020|July|12|format=dmy}}
|align=center|5
|align=center|5:00
|Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
|{{small|Defended the UFC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}} Win
|align=center|21–1
|Decision (unanimous)
|{{dts|2019|December|14|format=dmy}}
|align=center|5
|align=center|5:00
|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
|{{small|Won the UFC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|20–1
|Decision (unanimous)
|{{dts|2019|May|11|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|19–1
|TKO (punches)
|{{dts|2018|December|29|format=dmy}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|4:14
|Inglewood, California, United States
|{{small|Fight of the Night.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|18–1
|Decision (unanimous)
|UFC Fight Night: dos Santos vs. Ivanov
|{{dts|2018|July|14|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Boise, Idaho, United States
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|17–1
|TKO (punches and elbows)
|{{dts|2018|February|11|format=dmy}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|4:57
|Perth, Australia
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|16–1
|Decision (unanimous)
|UFC Fight Night: Werdum vs. Tybura
|{{dts|2017|November|19|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Sydney, Australia
|{{small|Catchweight (150 lb) bout.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|15–1
|Decision (unanimous)
|UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Hunt
|{{dts|2017|June|11|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Auckland, New Zealand
|{{small|Return to Featherweight.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|14–1
|Yusuke Kasuya
|TKO (punches)
|UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs. Brunson
|{{dts|2016|November|26|format=dmy}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|2:06
|Melbourne, Australia
|
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|13–1
|Jai Bradney
|TKO (punches)
|Wollongong Wars 4
|{{dts|2016|July|8|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|N/A
|Wollongong, Australia
|{{small|Won the Wollongong Wars Lightweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|12–1
|KO (punch)
|{{dts|2016|May|19|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|3:23
|Melbourne, Australia
|{{small|Defended the AFC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|11–1
|Yusuke Yachi
|Submission (triangle choke)
|Pacific Xtreme Combat 50
|{{dts|2015|December|4|format=dmy}}
|align=center|4
|align=center|3:43
|Mangilao, Guam
|{{small|Won the PXC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|10–1
|James Bishop
|TKO (punches)
|{{dts|2015|June|14|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|1:39
|Melbourne, Australia
|{{small|Won the AFC Featherweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|9–1
|David Butt
|TKO (punches)
|Wollongong Wars 2
|{{dts|2014|November|1|format=dmy}}
|align=center|2
|align=center|1:52
|Thirroul, Australia
|{{small|Lightweight bout.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|8–1
|Kyle Reyes
|Decision (unanimous)
|Pacific Xtreme Combat 45
|{{dts|2014|October|24|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Mangilao, Guam
|{{small|Return to Featherweight.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|7–1
|Jai Bradney
|Submission (rear-naked choke)
|Roshambo MMA 3
|{{dts|2014|July|26|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|4:58
|Brisbane, Australia
|{{small|Defended the Roshambo MMA Lightweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|6–1
|Rodolfo Marques Diniz
|KO (punch)
|{{dts|2014|May|17|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|3:41
|Albury, Australia
|{{small|Featherweight debut.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|5–1
|Greg Atzori
|Submission (guillotine choke)
|Roshambo MMA 2
|{{dts|2014|February|1|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|N/A
|Brisbane, Australia
|{{small|Lightweight debut. Won the vacant Roshambo MMA Lightweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|4–1
|Luke Catubig
|TKO (punches)
|{{dts|2013|December|14|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|4:39
|Melbourne, Australia
|
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|align=center|3–1
|Corey Nelson
|TKO (head kick and punches)
|{{dts|2013|May|10|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|0:13
|Melbourne, Australia
|{{small|AFC Welterweight Tournament Quarterfinal.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|3–0
|Anton Zafir
|TKO (punches)
|Roshambo MMA 1
|{{dts|2013|April|17|format=dmy}}
|align=center|4
|align=center|2:19
|Brisbane, Australia
|{{small|Won the Roshambo MMA Welterweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|2–0
|Regan Wilson
|TKO (doctor stoppage)
|Southern Fight Promotions: Cage Conquest 2
|{{dts|2013|February|23|format=dmy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|2:49
|Nowra, Australia
|{{small|Won the Cage Conquest Welterweight Championship.}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|1–0
|Gerhard Voigt
|Decision (unanimous)
|Revolution Promotions: Revolution at the Roxy
|{{dts|2012|May|19|format=dmy}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|Sydney, Australia
|{{small|Welterweight debut.}}
{{end}}
Professional boxing record
{{BoxingRecordSummary
|dec-wins = 1
}}
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |
| {{abbr|No.|Number}}
!Result !Record !Opponent !Type !Round, time !Date !Location !Notes |
|---|
| 1
|{{yes2}}Win |1–0 |style="text-align:left;"|Dillon Bargero |{{abbr|UD|Unanimous decision}} |4 |17 Apr 2015 |style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Hurstville Entertainment Centre, Hurstville, Australia}} | |
Pay-per-view bouts
| class="wikitable"
|+ !No. !Event !Fight !Date !Venue !City !PPV Buys |
| 1.
|Volkanovski vs. Ortega |25 September 2021 |Las Vegas, Nevada, United States |
| 2.
|Volkanovski vs. Korean Zombie |9 April 2022 |VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena |Jacksonville, Florida, United States |
| 3.
|Makhachev vs. Volkanovski |12 February 2023 |Perth, Australia |
| 4.
|Volkanovski vs. Rodríguez |8 July 2023 |Las Vegas, Nevada, United States |
| 5.
|Makhachev vs. Volkanovski 2 |21 October 2023 |Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| 6.
|Volkanovski vs. Topuria |17 February 2024 |Anaheim, California, United States |
| 7.
|Volkanovski vs. Lopes |12 April 2025 |Miami, Florida, United States |
See also
References
{{reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- {{Official website}}
- {{Sports links}}
{{s-start}}
{{s-ach}}
|-
{{s-bef|before=Max Holloway}}
{{s-ttl | title=5th UFC Featherweight Champion |years=14 December 2019 – 17 February 2024}}
{{s-aft|after=Ilia Topuria}}
{{s-vac|last=Ilia Topuria}}
{{s-ttl | title=7th UFC Featherweight Champion |years=12 April 2025 – present}}
{{s-inc}}
{{end}}
{{UFC title holders}}
{{UFC Featherweight Championship}}
{{UFC Men's pound-for-pound Rankings}}
{{UFC Featherweight Rankings}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Volkanovski, Alexander}}
Category:21st-century Australian sportsmen
Category:Australian male boxers
Category:Australian male kickboxers
Category:Australian male mixed martial artists
Category:Australian male sport wrestlers
Category:Australian people of Greek descent
Category:Australian people of Macedonian descent
Category:Australian practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Category:Australian rugby league players
Category:Featherweight mixed martial artists
Category:Lightweight mixed martial artists
Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing boxing
Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Greco-Roman wrestling
Category:People awarded a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Category:Rugby league players from Wollongong
Category:Sportsmen from New South Wales
Category:Sportspeople from Wollongong
Category:Sportspeople of Greek descent
Category:Ultimate Fighting Championship champions