Alexander Volkanovski’s upcoming UFC 314 title fight represents a critical juncture in the former 145lbs champion’s storied career. After suffering devastating setbacks—a contentious decision against Islam Makhachev followed by a vicious knockout in their rematch. However, the most heartbreaking reality hit Volk’s wonderland when he was demolished by Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. This is the reason that his bout with Diego Lopes will serve as more than just another entry on his record. It’s going to be a referendum on his resilience, adaptability, and remaining competitive window at the elite level.

This performance—win or lose—will likely determine whether he reclaims his position among the sport’s pound-for-pound elite or begins the difficult transition into a gatekeeping role. However, it seems that the Aussie ace is in no mood to leave the sport just yet. Ahead of the PPV in Miami, the man from the land down under weighed in on how his future would look if he could successfully disengage the Brazilian dynamo. 

The former champ spoke to ENGAGE and stated: “I’ve been vocal of that I’m gonna get my hand raised. Get that belt back on April 12th, and I’m gonna call out someone. I think it’s probably gonna be Movsar [Evlovev], he’s undefeated. You know I don’t even think he needs to fight. I want a few fights this year.”

Having already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest featherweights of all time, Volkanovski now has a golden opportunity to reclaim the title. With Ilia Topuria vacating the crown, the Aussie will look to get the 145lbs strap back. Standing in his way is Diego Lopes, a formidable opponent who has been making headlines outside the Octagon as well.

Interestingly, Lopes recently found himself in a heated exchange with Aljamain Sterling after voicing his belief that the vacant title shot should have been awarded to the undefeated Movsar Evloev. And now, even Volkanovski has made it clear that the Russian remains firmly in his plans for the future.

However, he remains fully focused on the task at hand — dispatching Lopes at UFC 314. For Volkanovski, reclaiming the featherweight crown is the immediate goal, but his ambitions don’t stop there.

Alexander Volkanovski spills the beans on his mindset ahead of UFC 314

Alexander Volkanovski is a fun-loving man. However, he also comes laced with a killer instinct that has helped him conquer the most difficult sport in the world for years. After having a breakdown at the post-fight presser amidst his second loss to Makhachev, the Aussie seems in prime position to regain composure and use his mental fortitude as his greatest weapon.

In the same interview with ENGAGE, the former featherweight champion shared his mental strategy: “I’m gonna be OK, I’m gonna be calm, I am going to be composed through that process. I’m still gonna be able to problem-solve when a lot of people just can’t handle that pressure. Can’t handle that adversity and still be able to be composed and problem-solve. So if we get there, I guarantee you even if in a bad position in the grasp of Lopes. I guarantee you, I’ve still got a cooler head than he does.”

Volkanovski’s goal is to stay so calm and focused that it unsettles Lopes, potentially pushing the rising contender into a frenzy. With Lopes riding a five-fight win streak, Volkanovski knows he faces a dangerous challenge. Yet, the 36-year-old remains confident that his experience and mental edge will prove decisive.

While some question, if Volkanovski’s confidence will pay off, his track record, shows he thrives in adversity. For the former champ, it’s not just about winning this fight. It’s about proving he can conquer any generation of fighters, even as his career approaches its twilight. What are your predictions for the UFC 314 main event? Let us know in the comment section below!