“Inside Alexander Volkanovski’s Extreme Weight Cut for UFC Glory”

Alexander Volkanovski’s Extreme Weight Cut for UFC 294 Rematch

Dramatic Weight Loss

Alexander Volkanovski, the current UFC featherweight champion, faced a daunting challenge ahead of his highly-anticipated UFC lightweight title rematch against Islam Makhachev at UFC 294. With just 12 days’ notice, Volkanovski had to undergo a dramatic drop in weight to make the cut for the fight. He revealed that he lost 26.5lbs in just 11 days to meet the lightweight requirements.

In an interview with TNT Sports, Volkanovski explained that he had been on a holiday with his family when he received the call to fight Makhachev. Initially motivated by his own dissatisfaction with his weight, he quickly shed a couple of kilograms before officially accepting the fight. He attributed his ability to lose weight rapidly to his body’s response and the mental switch he flipped.

Pressure and Legacy

Despite the short preparation time, there have been suggestions that the pressure on Volkanovski has been eased. However, the Australian fighter vehemently disagreed with this notion during a press conference. He stressed that his legacy is on the line and expressed his desire to win the rematch and capture the lightweight title.

Volkanovski emphasized that this rematch may be his last opportunity to challenge for the lightweight title. He acknowledged the significance of this fight in determining his legacy and stressed that it is more than just a “no-lose situation.” The pressure to perform and secure the victory is immense, especially given the abbreviated time frame for preparation.

Battle of Pound-for-Pound Fighters

Volkanovski’s clash with Makhachev is a battle between two of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC. Makhachev, 31, has an impressive winning streak of 12 fights, including his victory over Volkanovski earlier this year. Volkanovski, stepping up in weight class for these bouts, is aiming to become the fifth simultaneous double champion in UFC history, following in the footsteps of Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, Amanda Nunes, and Henry Cejudo.

Editorial and Advice

Volkanovski’s extreme weight cut brings attention to the toll such practices can have on fighters’ bodies and overall well-being. Rapid weight loss is a common phenomenon in combat sports, as athletes attempt to gain a size advantage over their opponents. However, it raises ethical questions about the health risks involved.

Combat sports organizations like the UFC have taken steps to address extreme weight cuts by implementing mandatory hydration testing and weight-class restrictions. Nevertheless, the culture of drastic weight fluctuations remains prevalent. There is a need for further examination of weight-cutting practices and potential reforms to ensure fighters’ safety and longevity in the sport.

For fighters like Volkanovski who face demanding weight cuts, it is crucial to approach the process with professional guidance and medical supervision. Extreme weight loss within a short period can have severe consequences for an athlete’s performance and overall health. Proper nutrition, hydration, and recovery strategies should be prioritized to mitigate the risks associated with drastic weight cuts.

Furthermore, the underlying motivations driving athletes to subject themselves to such extreme weight cuts should also be explored. The pressure to maximize competitive advantages and achieve success in combat sports often plays a role in these decisions. A broader conversation is needed to address the complex interplay between weight cutting, performance outcomes, and the overall welfare of fighters.

How to Watch UFC 294

UFC 294 is set to take place on Saturday, October 21, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The preliminary card will commence at 10 a.m. ET, followed by the main card at 2 p.m. ET. The headline fight between Volkanovski and Makhachev is expected to begin a few hours later.

In the United States, fans can watch the event on ESPN+. For viewers in the UK, the fight will be broadcast on TNT Sports.

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