Alexander Volkanovski remains steadfast in his belief regarding the greatest featherweight in MMA history, despite losing his title to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. Volkanovski, with a record of 26-4 in MMA and 13-3 in the UFC, has a notable career with victories over big names like Jose Aldo, Max Holloway (three times), and Brian Ortega. Despite his recent loss, Volkanovski has not wavered in his admiration for Aldo, praising the former champion's respectful demeanor and skill throughout his six-year championship reign that started in the WEC.
"Obviously his technique, his skill is always going to be something that you're going to appreciate, but him being such a respectful champion," Volkanovski expressed to Fox Sports Australia. "Again, that's how I like to be like. I think he's morally correct, I think he's just respectful. He's how a champion should be, and that was something that I really did appreciate and made me want to be a great champion, too."
Although Aldo lost his featherweight title, he is set to make a comeback against Jonathan Martinez (19-4 MMA, 10-3 UFC) in the bantamweight co-main event at UFC 301 in Rio Arena, Rio de Janeiro. Volkanovski acknowledged Aldo's UFC record of seven title defenses at featherweight, which, in his opinion, cements Aldo as the greatest in the division's history.
"I can appreciate what Aldo's done, you know what I mean," Volkanovski said. "That's for other people to decide but you know for me, if you're going to ask me, I'm going to say Aldo because you know, he was a champion for a very long time."
"Obviously, people are going to look at competition and all that, but to be champion that long, things go wrong. You fight injured, there's so many things that can go wrong and to be champion that long, it's saying something. He was very dominant as a champion, as well, so full respect to Aldo."
For those interested, more details about the UFC 301 card can be found on MMA Junkie's event hub for the event.
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