Alexander Volkanovski, the UFC featherweight champion, surprised many with his emotional post-fight comments after UFC 294. He opened up about his struggles with mental health following a KO loss to Islam Makhachev at the event.
In front of reporters, Volkanovski held back tears as he expressed his mental health struggles, acknowledging that he was feeling overwhelmed in the months leading up to the fight. This came as a shock to many, as Volkanovski is known for his positivity and charisma.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Volkanovski further explained his experience and reassured fans that he is doing okay. He attributed the emotional outpouring to the pressure he had been under, including the recent birth of his daughter and his arm surgery after UFC 290.
Volkanovski emphasized that he is in a good place personally, but the demands of being a high-performance athlete took a toll on him. He expressed his desire to make the most of his prime and normalize conversations about mental health in the sports world and society at large.
Many fighters reached out to him after his comments, offering support and seeking advice. Volkanovski believes that sharing raw emotions and discussing mental well-being are essential for increasing awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
For more information about UFC 294, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 294.
Story originally appeared on MMA Junkie.
Sarah Foster is your guide to the world of Mixed Martial Arts. With a deep understanding of MMA’s intricacies and a passion for the sport, she offers comprehensive coverage of MMA events, fighter profiles, and in-depth analysis of fights. Sarah’s commitment to the octagon ensures that readers stay engaged with the latest developments in the MMA world.
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