Alexander Volkanovski Faces MMA’s Harsh Reality: The “What Have You Done For Me Lately” Culture

In the unforgiving world of mixed martial arts, champions rise and fall with the tides of public opinion. Alexander Volkanovski, the former featherweight king, understands this cruel truth better than most.

“Look, I think a lot of people are going to look at my recent record and make judgments,” Volkanovski told reporters at a recent media day. “But that’s just the nature of our sport—it’s always about what have you done for me lately.”

The Harsh Reality All Fighters Face

I’ve been covering MMA for years, and if there’s one consistent truth, it’s how quickly the narrative can change around a fighter. One moment, you’re the untouchable GOAT; the next, you’re yesterday’s news.

Volkanovski’s situation is particularly interesting. Despite being one of the most dominant champions in UFC history, with an incredible 22-fight win streak before his first UFC loss, back-to-back defeats have suddenly put him in an unfamiliar position—having to remind people of his greatness.

“It’s like people forget everything else I’ve done in my career because of a couple losses,” Volkanovski explained. “That’s the game we’re in. You’re only as good as your last fight.”

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Learning From Adversity

What separates true champions from the rest isn’t just how they handle victory, but how they respond to defeat. Volkanovski’s mindset through his recent challenges shows why he’s been at the top for so long.

“You can either let the losses define you, or you can use them as fuel,” he said. “I’m choosing the latter. I’ve never been more motivated.”

For fighters, especially those who’ve tasted gold, the psychological impact of consecutive losses can be devastating. But Volkanovski seems to have the mental fortitude that separates the greats from the legends.

What’s Next For The Former Champ?

Sources close to the UFC have indicated that Volkanovski is targeting a return in late 2023 or early 2024. The question remains: will he immediately jump back into title contention, or take a step back to rebuild momentum?

The featherweight division hasn’t gotten any easier during his absence. With hungry contenders like Ilia Topuria making noise and champion Dricus Du Plessis settling into his reign, Volkanovski’s path back to the top is anything but guaranteed.

“I still believe I’m the best featherweight on the planet,” Volkanovski stated firmly. “And I’m going to prove that to everyone who’s forgotten.”

The Fan Perspective

You might be wondering why we should still care about Volkanovski’s journey. The answer is simple: we’re witnessing a crucial chapter in what could still be one of the greatest careers in MMA history.

Think about it—how many fighters have we seen disappear after losing their title? The way a champion responds to adversity often reveals more about their character than their victories ever could.

Will Volkanovski join the ranks of legends like GSP and Demetrious Johnson who reclaimed their throne? Or will this be the beginning of the end for the Australian standout?

The Harsh Truth About Fighting Careers

The average UFC fighter’s prime lasts just 4-5 years. At 35, Volkanovski is fighting not just opponents, but Father Time himself. Each setback at this stage becomes magnified, each comeback more difficult.

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned covering this sport, it’s to never count out a champion with the right mindset. And Volkanovski’s perspective on his recent challenges suggests he has exactly that.

“I’ve been underestimated my entire career,” he reminded reporters. “Being counted out is nothing new to me. I’ve always proved people wrong, and I’ll do it again.”

Will You Be Watching When Volkanovski Returns?

For all the fight fans in South Florida, this is one comeback story you won’t want to miss. When Alexander Volkanovski steps back into the octagon, we’ll be witnessing either the resurgence of a legend or the final chapters of a storied career.

Either way, it’s going to be must-see TV. Because in a sport defined by “what have you done for me lately,” Volkanovski is determined to give us all something new to talk about.