Volkanovski’s Dream Attribute

Every fighter has their own set of unique skills and attributes that set them apart from the competition. But even for the best-of-the-best, there’s always that one quality from another fighter that makes you stop and think, “Man, what if I had that too?” In a candid reveal that left MMA fans buzzing, reigning featherweight king Alexander Volkanovski opened up about the one attribute he admires most, and wishes he could steal, from a fellow fighter.

From Power to Precision: Volkanovski’s Quest for Perfection

Let’s make one thing clear: Volkanovski isn’t exactly lacking in any department. The Aussie is as well-rounded as they come in MMA. A former rugby player with an indomitable work ethic, he’s armed with elite wrestling, suffocating pace, and striking that can reach a surgeon’s level of precision. Add to that his incredible fight IQ and granite chin, and you’ve got a champion who’s right to feel confident every time he steps into the Octagon.

But, if there’s one thing Volkanovski is particularly good at, it’s self-awareness. During a recent exchange with MMA Junkie, the featherweight superstar delved into a hypothetical scenario: What single attribute from another fighter would he want to add to his already impressive toolbox? And who better to pull inspiration from than the elite talents he’s shared the cageor headlineswith?

The Fighter Attribute Draft Begins

When a fighter like Volkanovski, whose resume boasts consecutive wins over legends and some of the toughest names in the sport, starts admiring other fighters, you pay attention. So, who made the cut in his fantasy “Attribute Draft” and what caught his eye?

First, there’s Islam Makhachev, the current lightweight champion and dominant force at 155 pounds. Known for his relentless grappling, world-class clinch game, and physical strength, Makhachev has a style that’s smothered opponents time and time again. Having shared the cage with him in one of 2023’s most memorable boutswhere Volkanovski moved up a weight classthe respect between these two warriors runs deep.

Then there’s none other than Max Holloway, the man Volkanovski fought three scintillating times in some of the most technical battles in featherweight history. Holloway’s blend of cardio, durability, and endless striking volume remains the stuff of legends. Despite walking away with the “W” in their trilogy, it’s clear Volkanovski recognizes a fellow phenom when he sees one. Let’s not forget, Holloway landed a record-breaking 445 significant strikes in one boutan astounding feat even by MMA’s ridiculously high standards.

But Volkanovski wasn’t just daydreaming about the idea of adding to his arsenal; he actually revealed the specific attribute he’d love the most.

The “Toughest of the Tough”: Volkanovski’s Pick

Drumroll, please. The attribute Volkanovski wishes he could have is… drum-tight striking defense and laser-like distance control. Rather than choosing raw, overwhelming power or fearsome grappling, “The Great” aims for finesse and survivabilitytwo elements that define longevity in the fight game.

He specifically highlighted Holloway’s ability to stand and trade in scenarios where most fighters crumblesomething Volkanovski got a front-row seat to during their epic trilogy. The fights between these two have become a highlight reel of what makes featherweight MMA so captivating: endurance, precision, and an almost inhuman ability to absorb punishment without blinking.

A Humble Admission from the Featherweight Champ

Now, Volkanovski isn’t saying he lacks durability or defense himself. After all, his stock skyrocketed when he fearlessly moved up to fight Makhachev at lightweight and largely held his own against one of the most dangerous grapplers in the sport. But for Volkanovski, it’s about the finer details that separate good fighters from great onesand great fighters from legends.

“You always want to look at these things from your opponents and go, ‘What can I bring into my game?’ That’s all part of being a complete martial artist,” Volkanovski explained with his trademark humility. “Max’s ability to go five rounds with non-stop volume, takedown defense, that’s all just next level.”

The Secret Sauce of Great Champions

At the heart of this fan-favorite discussion lies the essence of championship mentality. Volkanovski isn’t resting on his laurels; instead, he’s constantly evaluating himself and others to sharpen his craft. Whether it’s Makhachev’s stifling grappling or Holloway’s seemingly endless stamina, he can rule no department out when it comes to staying at the top of his gameand adapting to the sport’s ever-changing landscape.

This obsession with improvement may explain why Volkanovski remains one of the most dominant fighters in mixed martial arts today. No ego, no excusesjust a deep love for a sport that’s as unforgiving as it is exhilarating.

What Would Volkanovski Look Like With His “Dream Attribute”?

It’s a tantalizing thought. Imagine Volkanovski layered with an extra dose of Holloway-esque durability or Makhachev’s nearly immovable clinch gamea truly unbeatable fighter. The thought alone is enough to make his rivals shudder.

But perhaps, Volkanovski’s greatest weapon is his ability to constantly evolve while remaining humble. Whether it’s future rematches, legacy fights with rising stars, or another bold step into lightweight waters, one thing is certain: Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski isn’t done chasing perfection.

What do you think about Volkanovski’s pick? Would you have chosen Holloway’s cardio or Makhachev’s grappling strength? Let us know in the comments below!