Alex Volkanovski Shares Future Retirement Plans Ahead of UFC 333 Fight

Alexander Volkanovski, the reigning UFC Featherweight champion, has outlined his potential retirement plans ahead of his highly anticipated matchup against Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 on October 24 in Abu Dhabi. The 38-year-old Australian fighter, who will be entering the octagon shortly after his 38th birthday, revealed during an interview with Australia’s 10 News that his decision to continue competing will hinge largely on the outcome of this fight. “If things go terribly wrong, alright we’re done,” he said. “If things go very well, like the last one no damage, alright we’ll keep it rolling.” Volkanovski emphasized that he does not currently have plans to retire, though he acknowledged that the result of his next fight could determine his future in the sport. The stakes of the match are high, as Evloev, the undefeated challenger with a perfect 20-0 record and a 10-0 streak within the UFC, represents one of the most formidable opponents Volkanovski has faced in his career. Despite the challenge, the oddsmakers still favor the Australian champion, who has built a reputation as one of the most resilient and technically sound fighters in the division. Volkanovski’s durability has been a defining trait throughout his career, particularly following his sole loss in the Australian Fighting League in 2013. Since then, he has only suffered defeats at the hands of Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria, two names often cited among the top pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC. While the exact meaning of “terribly wrong” remains undefined, analysts suggest that any scenario involving substantial damage, a major injury, or being finished by Evloev could trigger Volkanovski’s exit from the sport. This assessment comes amid growing speculation about how long the veteran fighter might remain active. His recent performances have shown signs of slowing, yet his ability to adapt and maintain composure under pressure continues to set him apart. Many observers believe that a victory over Evloev could solidify his legacy as a future UFC Hall of Fame inductee, while a loss might mark the beginning of his retirement. The fight itself is expected to be a pivotal moment for both fighters. Evloev, known for his aggressive style and relentless pressure, poses a unique challenge for Volkanovski, who typically relies on precision and strategic control. The matchup promises to be a test of endurance, skill, and mental fortitude. Given that Evloev has yet to finish a single opponent in the UFC, some fans and analysts speculate that the fight could end in a draw or a close decision rather than a knockout. However, the outcome will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Volkanovski’s career moving forward. In addition to the immediate implications of the fight, there is broader interest in how Volkanovski balances longevity with performance. At 38, he is already older than many of his contemporaries in the featherweight division, which raises questions about how much longer he can sustain his elite level of competition. Yet, his track record suggests that he is capable of maintaining peak form even into his late thirties. Whether he chooses to extend his career beyond UFC 333 will depend on factors beyond just the outcome of this fight, including personal considerations, physical condition, and the evolving landscape of the sport. As the date of UFC 333 approaches, anticipation builds around the fight, not only for its competitive significance but also for what it may reveal about Volkanovski’s future. Fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see whether the champion’s words align with the reality of the fight, and whether the outcome of October 24 marks the start of a new chapter, or the end of one.