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Alex Volkanovski fights undefeated curse at UFC 314

Originally posted on MMA on SI | By Mathew Riddle | Last updated Apr 9, 2025 7:37 PM ET

It's that time again where former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski must defy all odds by coming out ontop in another title fight.

While fight fans are scrambling to make their predictions for Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes, shining light on Lopes' past performances and fundamental flaws, they overlook one crucial detail; A UFC 'curse' that remains undefeated in the Octagon.

Does Volkanovski have what it takes to upset the odds?

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Alex Volkanovski must overcome 'age curse' at UFC 314

UFC fighters in men's divisions, below welterweight, are winless in title fights if they are aged 35 or above. The record for fighters who fit this criteria (including welterweight) is an alarming 3-24.

Volkanovski is 36 entering his fight with Lopes, and has already fallen victim to the statistic twice, in his rematch with Makhachev, and knockout loss to Ilia Topuria.

'The Great' was notably self-aware of the 'curse' ahead of his fight with Topuria, where he embraced the old-man persona in the buildup.

Historically, UFC fighters of Volkanovski's age in the featherweight division are 0-5 in title fights. A win at UFC 314 for Volkanovski would be a first-ever for any fighter below welterweight.

Does 'The Great' make UFC history?

This article first appeared on MMA on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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