Alexander Volkanovski: From Rugby League Forward to UFC Featherweight Legend

Alexander Volkanovski and his story isn’t just one of success—it’s one of transformation. From crashing into tackles on the rugby league field to trading punches in the UFC’s Octagon, his journey is a masterclass in grit, reinvention, and the pursuit of greatness.

Rugby Roots and the Spark of Something New

Before the lights of the UFC ever shone on him, Volkanovski was a stocky, hard-hitting forward on the rugby pitch in Australia. At just 5’6″ and weighing around 214 pounds (97 kg), he was often the smaller guy going up against giants—but that didn’t stop him. If anything, it shaped him. That toughness, that ability to thrive in the deep end, became the backbone of his fighting career.

During an off-season, looking to stay fit, he dipped his toes into MMA training. What started as a side hustle quickly turned into a full-blown passion. He fell in love with the grind, the strategy, the discipline—and soon, rugby was in the rearview mirror.

Fighting Across Divisions: A Journey Through Weight Classes

Volkanovski’s MMA career didn’t start where most know him now. He climbed his way up—and down—through multiple weight divisions, constantly learning and adjusting.

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Welterweight (170 lbs / 77 kg): This is where it all began. Volkanovski made his professional debut as a welterweight, even going up against top talent like Corey Nelson. But fighting at that weight wasn’t sustainable. He was tough—but outsized. The experience was humbling and eye-opening.

Lightweight (155 lbs / 70 kg): Dropping down, Volkanovski found more balance between power and speed. He quickly made a mark by winning the Roshambo MMA Lightweight Championship and defending it successfully. When he joined the UFC in 2016, it was in this division, where he delivered a dominant TKO win in his debut. But he wasn’t done yet.

Featherweight (145 lbs / 66 kg): This was home. In featherweight, Volkanovski found his sweet spot. He bulldozed his way to the top, defeating legends and defending his title with heart and precision. His trilogy with Max Holloway, the war with Brian Ortega, and the statement win over the “Korean Zombie” (Chan Sung Jung) cemented him as one of the greatest to ever compete at 145 pounds.

Return to Lightweight: Not one to shy away from challenges, Volkanovski moved back up to lightweight in 2023 to face the formidable Islam Makhachev for the UFC Lightweight Championship. The first fight was razor-close, ending in a decision loss. The rematch, though, was tougher—ending in a first-round knockout. Still, the willingness to take risks only added to his legacy.

Setbacks and the Road Ahead for Alexander Volkanovski

In early 2024, Alexander Volkanovski faced rising star Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. It was a tough night—he lost the featherweight belt via second-round knockout. But if there’s one thing fans have learned about Alex, it’s that you can never count him out.

Now, he’s got his eyes on redemption. On April 12, 2025, at UFC 314, he’s stepping back into the cage to face Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title. It’s a chance to reclaim his throne—and knowing Volkanovski, he’ll come in sharper, hungrier, and more determined than ever.