Alexander Volkanovski's career in pictures: Aussie legend's rollercoaster career continues after history-defying win
Updated . First published
Alexander Volkanovski's career in pictures
He's become a cult hero both at home and abroad, but the UFC career of Alexander Volkanovski could be coming to a close sooner rather than later ahead of his return against Diego Lopes.
The 36-year-old has cemented himself as the consensus greatest featherweight ever, as well as being the most accomplished Australian fighter in the history of mixed martial arts.
From his debut in 2016 until last year, Volkanovski reigned supreme at the 145-pound division, beating tough fighters and legends along the way.
However, with all of his success over that period, Volkanovski has suffered setbacks in recent years.
Wide World of Sports takes a look back at every fight from the Aussie superstar's career in the UFC.
Yusuke Kasuya (November 2016)
After making a name for himself on the Aussie scene, the former Warilla Gorillas league player made his UFC debut against Yusuke Kasuya at Rod Laver Arena.
Volkanovski won the lightweight bout via second-round TKO, before revealing his plans to drop to the 145-pound division.
Mizuto Hirota (June 2017)
Volkanovski's drop to featherweight started in style, earning a unanimous decision win over Mizuto Hirota.
Shane Young (November 2017)
In a trans-Tasman battle, Volkanovski defeated Shane Young in another hard-fought unanimous decision triumph.
Jeremy Kennedy (February 2018)
The popular south coast product landed a spot on his first pay-per-view undercard and made the most of the opportunity.
Volkanovski stopped Jeremy Kennedy in less than two rounds with some vicious punches and elbows.
Darren Ekins (July 2018)
In his first fight on American soil, Volkanovski overcame Darren Elkins via unanimous decision in Boise, Idaho.
The win marked the last time Volkanovski would compete on a non-PPV card.
Chad Mendes (December 2018)
Volkanovski put the division on notice with a 'Fight of the Night' performance, defeating Chad Mendes via TKO in the second round at UFC 232.
It marked the last fight of Mendes' career, who had previously fought for the title against Conor McGregor.
Jose Aldo (May 2019)
A legacy-defining moment for Volkanovski.
Taking on the consensus greatest featherweight in history, the Aussie star walked into enemy territory and took home the unanimous decision win over Jose Aldo in Rio de Janeiro.
Max Holloway (December 2019)
After overcoming both Mendes and Aldo, it was time for Volkanovski to get a title shot of his own against Max Holloway.
In the first fight of an epic trilogy, Volkanovski got the nod via unanimous decision in Las Vegas.
Volkanovski's win marked just the second time an Aussie had captured UFC gold, following in the footsteps of Rob Whittaker.
Max Holloway (July 2020)
Holloway was granted a rematch - as he deserved - for the championship less than a year after dropping the gold.
Unfortunately for the fan-favourite, Volkanovski again came out on top, earning a split decision victory.
