Alexander Volkanovski has been a strong force in the UFC for many years. The featherweight king defended his championship five times, earning a place in history. But lately, the tide has shifted. ‘The Great’ is on a two-fight losing streak after suffering two crushing defeats to Islam Makhachev and losing the title to Ilia Topuria. At 36, with hungry challengers circling and momentum weakening, some may start doubting his capabilities now.

Now is his chance to prove them wrong as he walks into UFC 314. His opponent? None other than rising star Diego Lopes, who has been tearing up the competition. Volkanovski has a chance at redemption now that the featherweight title is back on the line. And, while his technique, experience, and heart have always been highlighted, there’s another aspect of him that stands out: the moniker ‘The Great.’ So, what is the meaning behind the nickname? Let’s find out.

Why is Alexander Volkanovski called ‘The Great’?

The moniker ‘The Great’ is more than just a clever ring name; it’s a personal symbol with historical significance. Alexander Volkanovski’s heritage plays an important role in the plot. With a Macedonian father and a Greek mother, the connection to Alexander the Great was almost a perfect fit. The ancient conqueror was legendary for bringing cultures together and dominating every battlefield he went on.

Volkanovski saw the parallel and made it his own. It wasn’t only about sounding powerful; it was also about remembering where he came from.  But what’s even more intriguing is that ‘The Great’ wasn’t his original nickname. Earlier in his career, before the belts and accolades, Alexander Volkanovski had a totally different identity in the cage—one that came with a whole lot of muscle.

The story behind Alexander Volkanovski’s unknown nickname ‘Hulk’

Before becoming a nightmare for many of his opponents inside the cage, Alexander Volkanovski was a rugby player who weighed more than 200 pounds! ‘The Great’ was always a rugby player, by heart and build. But at the age of 22, he began training in combat sports to stay in shape during the offseason. However, what began as a hobby quickly became a full-time job. With his powerful build and aggressive technique, he acquired the nickname ‘The Hulk’ when competing on the Australian circuit. And honestly? It made complete sense.

However, as Alexander Volkanovski lost weight and improved his skills, ‘The Hulk’ didn’t match the fighter he was becoming. The former UFC featherweight kingpin evolved both physically and psychologically. He transitioned from bulldozer to technician, from brute force to planned violence. That’s when ‘The Great’ arrived—not as a moniker, but as a new chapter. Volkanovski, who is preparing to meet Diego Lopes for the featherweight belt, isn’t only looking to win. He’s trying to remind the world that ‘The Great’ is more than just a name; it’s a legacy in progress. So, what do you think? Will he be able to reclaim the throne that he once lost? Let us know in the comments.