Alexander Volkanovski reflects on an extraordinary moment when he endured a chokehold that seemed destined to knock him out.
This Saturday at UFC 313 in Miami, Florida, USA, “The Great” Alexander Volkanovski is set to face Diego Lopes for the featherweight championship.
Volkanovski`s journey is remarkable, transitioning from a rugby league star to an MMA legend. He is now poised to add another chapter to his incredible story.
His career is filled with amazing tales, but one particular event stands out.
Alexander Volkanovski Almost Lost to Brian Ortega`s Choke
At UFC 266 on September 25, 2021, Alexander Volkanovski defended his featherweight title against Brian Ortega.
The fight was captivating, with Volkanovski utilizing his superior striking skills to dominate the exchanges on his feet.
However, in the third round, disaster struck. Ortega, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert, took down the champion and quickly applied a tight guillotine choke.
It was evident that Volkanovski was in deep trouble, yet he miraculously remained conscious, creating a moment etched in UFC history.
In an interview, Volkanovski recounted: “I thought, `Oh f—, I’m caught in a choke,` and I started doing what I needed to, pushing on his hips. I was trying to adjust the mechanics of the choke to get some air, but it wasn`t working.”
“Then, I just thought, `I`m not giving up.` I was thinking this, and then the lights started dimming. It was like in a movie.”
“At one point, I thought, `There’s no f—— way he’s taking this belt away from my family`.”
“It was either his arms would tire out, or I would pass out. Then, I felt him weaken slightly. He was obviously getting tired, and then the lights started to return, and I escaped.”
“I immediately remember thinking, most people would need a moment to recover, but I was like, `I’m going to get up and punch you in the f—— head, as hard as I can`.”
Despite surviving the choke, Volkanovski wasn`t safe yet, as Ortega attempted another submission, a triangle choke.
Demonstrating his incredible fighting spirit, Volkanovski once again overcame the adversity and went on to win by unanimous decision.
Alexander Volkanovski`s Legendary Career Began with a Brutal Knockout
Besides Ortega, Volkanovski has defeated numerous legends, including Jose Aldo and Max Holloway.
Before achieving victory against these all-time greats, he had to defeat a former title challenger.
At UFC 232, Volkanovski faced a dangerous opponent, knowing a victory would propel him to bigger opportunities.
In a fight that announced his arrival on the world stage, Volkanovski defeated a significant opponent in impressive fashion.
