Photo by Lynne Sladky / AP Photos
Alexander Volkanovski became the first fighter over the age of 35 in the lighter weight classes (125-155) to win a title after defeating Diego Lopes at UFC 314 by unanimous decision.
Volkanovski put on a technical masterclass from start to finish. He was on fire in the first round, and was doing more of the same in the second round until Lopes clipped him at the end of the round.
Volkanovski again controlled the terms of the fight in rounds three and four despite getting hurt again for a moment in round four. He put a bow on the fight by winning round five in what was a clutch round for him to secure.
The “over 35 curse”, made famous by journalist Luke Thomas, has been a talking point in MMA for a few years now. It proves that the lighter weight classes, where punching power is diminished, rely so heavily on athletic ability. It is also used as an argument for the lighter weight classes being richer with talent than the heavier weight classes. (Which they are)
Volkanovski not only became the first person to break the curse, but he also became the first person to win an undisputed title after suffering two knockout losses.
This win may be the single greatest achievement in Volkanovski’s career. While his wins over Max Holloway are undoubtedly the most impressive performances of his career, breaking the over-35 curse, winning a title after being knocked out twice, AND reclaiming a title he once held in a loaded weight division is just unbelievable.
This win puts Volkanovski in GOAT conversations and will ensure that he never leaves them. While he may not be the greatest ever in terms of resume, for my money, he is the most skilled all-around fighter I have ever seen.
Volkanovski is so good technically that this win doesn’t disprove the curse; it makes him the exception that proves the rule. Only someone this good could have done it.
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