At the UFC 314 press conference on Thursday, Alex Volkanovski explained why his vacant featherweight title fight against Diego Lopes is the most important of his career.
The 36-year-old is looking to bounce back after two consecutive knockout defeats which mark the first losing streak of his professional career.
These setbacks have left many pundits questioning how much the Australian has left to offer before he eventually hangs up the gloves for good.
Volkanovski was adamant when asked what it would mean to win the title back, that this milestone would cement his legacy within the company.
“Winning the belt now would be the best part of my story,” he said.
“I really do think that this is the biggest fight of my career.”
After former opponent Ilia Topuria vacated the 145 pound strap to move up a weight class, the doors opened for Volkanovski to fight for the belt again.
When asked, Volkanovski acknowledged the danger that Lopes presents, but remained steadfast in his belief of his own skills.
“[He is] a very aggressive, dangerous fighter, obviously great jiu-jitsu, power in the hands, always looking for the finish so you’ve got to respect that,” he said.
“I just believe I’m the best and I’m going to prove that Saturday night.”
Despite the recent skid, Volk’s popularity has not waned both in his native Australia and abroad.
The former champion spoke to how this support is driving him in what is set to be his tenth consecutive title fight.
“I’ve been feeling the love so much the past year and even before that. I appreciate every single one of you,” he said.
“[I’m] looking forward to putting on a show and get that belt back.”
The Windang product also commented on the growth of his supporter base, in particular, the familiarity with his iconic walk-out song “Down Under” by Men at Work.
“It’s my gig, everyone gets into it. It’s funny how many Americans, or, the world know that song,” he said.
Between the stakes of this title fight and the enormous fan support, ‘The Great’ has authored an impressive training camp which has been reflected in his new physique.
“I’m in incredible nick right now and it’s all going to pay off Saturday night,” he said.
This fight has all the makings of a classic and Thursday’s press conference declared the stakes for Volkanovski and his career.
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