Alexander Volkanovski, once the undisputed king of the UFC featherweight division, finds himself navigating uncharted waters. The Australian’s recent skid, marked by two consecutive knockout losses, has sparked widespread speculation about his future and reignited the ever-present question: has he lost his edge?

The stark contrast between Volkanovski’s former dominance and his current struggles has understandably led to introspection. “You are going to ask yourself like, ‘All right, this is unfamiliar territory, an unfamiliar feeling. Have you lost it? What’s going on? You must not want it anymore,'” Volkanovski admitted in an interview with ESPN. “I was like, ‘No, not really. I remember that I have accepted that I’m having the break, but have you accepted that you’re done? ‘No, I haven’t. I’ll be back. I’ll flip the switch, but will you flip the switch?’ You know, you ask yourself these questions, but I always answer, ‘Relax, when the time comes, you will flip the switch. Don’t worry.’ But I guess you won’t know until you decide to do that.”

The “switch” Volkanovski refers to is the mental and physical shift necessary to return to championship form. With his upcoming fight against Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title at UFC 314, he’ll have the chance to prove he can still flick it.

Volkanovski’s preparation for Lopes has been meticulous, a testament to his determination. He’s leaving no stone unturned, refining his diet and intensifying his training to ensure he’s in peak condition. “There were questions: Am I going to be able to flip the switch? Am I going to be the same guy once I flip that switch?” Volkanovski said. “We found out early because we started camp nice and early that we would. We’re kicking ass in the gym right now. The weight is ahead of schedule, and we’ve still got plenty of time.”

Despite turning 36, Volkanovski remains confident that he has plenty left in the tank. He’s not just aiming for a comeback; he’s envisioning another title reign. “I’m going to get the belt back, I’m going to defend, and that’s just going to add to my legacy and add to the story,” he declared.

The upcoming bout against Lopes will be a crucial test for Volkanovski. Can he rediscover the form that made him one of the most dominant featherweight champions in UFC history? Or will his recent struggles prove to be a sign of a decline? The MMA world will be watching closely to see if Volkanovski can indeed flip that switch and reclaim his throne.