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## The Rise and Reign of Alexander Volkanovski: A Look at His Fiercest Rivalries.

Alexander Volkanovski, the reigning UFC Featherweight champion, is known for his relentless pressure, suffocating pace, and unwavering determination. His rise to the top of the division has been paved with thrilling victories, but it's the battles he's faced along the way that have truly cemented his legacy. From his early days in the UFC to his current reign, Volkanovski has engaged in some of the most memorable and intense rivalries in mixed martial arts history..

Volkanovski vs. Holloway: A Championship Trilogy for the Ages.

The name that immediately springs to mind when discussing Volkanovski's rivalries is Max Holloway. Their feud is more than just a series of epic battles; it's a tale of two fighting styles, two personalities, and two contrasting approaches to the sport. Their first encounter at UFC 231 in December 2018 was a near-instant classic, with Volkanovski taking a hard-fought, controversial decision victory. The win not only secured him the featherweight title, but also sparked a rivalry that would define both men's careers..

Their rematch at UFC 245 in December 2019 was a tense and strategic affair, again culminating in a razor-thin decision victory for Volkanovski. The controversy surrounding the scoring in both fights further fueled their rivalry, with Holloway vehemently believing he deserved the win. Their third encounter, a thrilling back-and-forth battle at UFC 251 in July 2020, saw Volkanovski once again emerge victorious, solidifying his place as the division's dominant force. While the rivalry appears to be dormant for now, the possibility of a fourth meeting remains a tantalizing prospect for fight fans, especially given the close nature of their previous battles..

Volkanovski vs. Ortega: A Clash of Styles and a Show of Resilience.

Another noteworthy rivalry for Volkanovski was against the relentless Brian Ortega. Their fight at UFC 266 in September 2021 showcased both men's strengths and weaknesses. Ortega, known for his aggressive fighting style and devastating submission skills, presented a significant challenge to Volkanovski's calculated approach. While Volkanovski's relentless pressure and precise striking initially seemed to be overwhelming Ortega, the latter's late surge in the fight, showcasing his resilience and determination, made for a truly captivating match..

Despite losing via unanimous decision, Ortega's performance highlighted his ability to withstand Volkanovski's onslaught and make the fight incredibly close. This clash of styles, combined with the high stakes of the title fight, solidified this encounter as a true test of both fighters' capabilities..

Volkanovski vs. The Rest: Dominating the Division and Establishing His Legacy.

Volkanovski's rise to the top of the featherweight division has not been without its challenges. He has faced and defeated some of the best fighters in the world, including Chad Mendes, Jeremy Stephens, and Jose Aldo. These victories, while not directly leading to rivalries as heated as those with Holloway and Ortega, have nonetheless demonstrated Volkanovski's ability to adapt to different fighting styles and overcome tough opponents..

His dominance over the division has not gone unnoticed. With each win, Volkanovski further solidified his position as a true champion and a contender for the title of pound-for-pound king. While many fighters have stepped up to challenge him, none have been able to dethrone the Australian powerhouse..

What the Future Holds: The Challenge of New Rivals and Potential Superfights.

Looking ahead, Volkanovski faces a new wave of challengers. Young and hungry contenders like Yair Rodriguez and Arnold Allen are eager to make their mark on the featherweight division. The threat of a potential clash with the lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, adds another dimension to Volkanovski's future. While a move up in weight class is not currently on the horizon, the prospect of a superfight with a fighter like Makhachev is certainly a possibility, and one that would undoubtedly generate immense hype..

Volkanovski's journey as a fighter has been marked by his unwavering commitment to his craft, his willingness to take on all challengers, and his relentless pursuit of greatness. As he continues his reign at the top of the featherweight division, it's clear that the legacy of Alexander Volkanovski is far from complete. The battles he has fought and will continue to fight will surely be remembered as some of the most exciting and dramatic moments in UFC history..