The GOAT Debate: Why Volkanovski’s List Matters More Than You Think
The MMA world is no stranger to the 'greatest of all time' debate. It’s a conversation that sparks passion, divides fans, and often feels as endless as it is subjective. But when Alexander Volkanovski, the UFC featherweight champion, recently shared his top 5 GOAT list, it wasn’t just another fighter’s opinion—it was a masterclass in humility, respect, and strategic thinking. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Volkanovski’s choices reveal not just his admiration for skill, but his understanding of the sport’s nuances.
Demetrious Johnson: The Underrated Genius
Volkanovski’s inclusion of Demetrious Johnson at the top of his list is a bold move. Personally, I think this choice speaks volumes about his respect for technical mastery. Johnson’s dominance in the flyweight division is often overlooked because, as Volkanovski points out, the lighter weight classes don’t get the same spotlight. But here’s the thing: the flyweight division is a hotbed of elite athleticism. These fighters aren’t siphoned off by other sports; they’re the purest form of combat athletes. Volkanovski’s recognition of this is a reminder that greatness isn’t always about mainstream appeal—it’s about consistency, skill, and adaptability.
Islam Makhachev: The Rising Titan
What many people don’t realize is how deeply Volkanovski’s respect for Islam Makhachev runs, despite their two high-stakes battles. Including Makhachev in his GOAT list isn’t just a nod to his skill; it’s a testament to the mutual respect forged in the octagon. Their fights, especially the first one in Perth, are a case study in high-level MMA. Volkanovski even called it his favorite fight—not because he won, but because it showcased the pinnacle of the sport. This raises a deeper question: does losing to someone make you appreciate their greatness more? In Volkanovski’s case, the answer is a resounding yes.
The Absence of Jon Jones and Khabib Nurmagomedov
One thing that immediately stands out is who isn’t on Volkanovski’s list: Jon Jones and Khabib Nurmagomedov. While both are undisputed legends, their omissions are telling. Jones’s legacy is marred by controversies, and Khabib, though dominant, retired with a relatively shorter résumé compared to others on the list. From my perspective, Volkanovski’s criteria for greatness go beyond undefeated records or raw dominance. It’s about sustained excellence, the level of competition, and the impact on the sport. This isn’t just a list—it’s a philosophy.
Israel Adesanya: The Bias That Makes Sense
Volkanovski’s inclusion of Israel Adesanya might seem biased, but here’s where it gets interesting: he acknowledges the bias and owns it. Adesanya’s losses haven’t diminished his legacy in Volkanovski’s eyes because of the caliber of opponents he’s faced. Beating Robert Whittaker in his prime—twice—is no small feat. This choice highlights a broader truth: greatness isn’t about being undefeated; it’s about who you’ve beaten and how you’ve evolved. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a refreshing take in a sport where losses are often seen as disqualifying.
Anderson Silva: The Timeless Legend
Anderson Silva’s inclusion is a nod to the pioneers of the sport. What this really suggests is that Volkanovski values historical context as much as current dominance. Silva’s reign was unparalleled in its time, and his impact on MMA cannot be overstated. A detail that I find especially interesting is how Volkanovski balances nostalgia with objectivity. He doesn’t just include Silva because of his legacy; he acknowledges the timing of his dominance and its relevance today.
The Bigger Picture: What Volkanovski’s List Tells Us About MMA
Volkanovski’s GOAT list isn’t just a ranking—it’s a reflection of where MMA is as a sport. It’s about respect for the past, recognition of the present, and anticipation of the future. His choices challenge us to think beyond wins and losses and consider the intangibles: the skill, the impact, the legacy. In my opinion, this is what makes the GOAT debate so compelling. It’s not just about who’s the best; it’s about what we value in a fighter.
Final Thoughts
Volkanovski’s list is more than a personal ranking—it’s a statement. It challenges fans to look beyond the obvious, to appreciate the nuances of the sport, and to respect the journeys of those who step into the octagon. Personally, I think this is how the GOAT debate should be: thoughtful, respectful, and deeply analytical. It’s not about who’s right or wrong—it’s about celebrating the greatness that makes MMA so captivating.
