Respect to Volk. I hope he's ok mentally because this game is ruthless and once it's done with you, fighters struggle to fill the void left behind.

One of the hardest post fight pressers I've seen. This bloke is an absolute credit to the sport and a credit to himself and his family. He should be so proud of himself, very much an inspiration to millions worldwide. Long live Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski

This was a HEAVY post fight conference Edit: Good on Volk talking about this stuff publicly. Men’s mental health is often swept under the rug. It’s great seeing a obviously powerful man open up emotionally.

Massive respect to this man.. I wasn't his biggest fan 5/6 fights ago but hes grown on me massively and now I find him very inspiring. Massive respect for saying what's been on his mind, talking about things is half the battle. Just hope that he can find joy in other areas when he's done fighting

Never did I think I'd be watching Volk get Ko'd like that. I seriously hope he recovers well and reminds everybody who he is in January.

I'm not crying, you're crying. You're the man Volk. I went from being bitter that he beat Halloway to becoming a major fan of his tenacity and desire to stay active and provide us fans with great fights.

Love this man’s honesty. Poured his heart out like you don’t see people often to. No excuses just the raw truth. Man’s a beast. Take some time man and come back stronger.

Anyone who has, on principle, taken a risk for a chance at greatness but then dealt with the temporary setback of coming up short resonates with you Mr. Volk. Great fight and you're an inspiration.

If a man like Volk can struggle with this, that should give anyone struggling some comfort knowing it’s okay to not be okay. Speak about it, it doesn’t make you weak or less of a man. Respect to Volk for being open about it, real champion material

I'm not the MOST EMOTIONAL person in my family but my heart was broken seeing Volk like this. When a Legend tears up, hearts break in millions.

Seeing Volk cry made me tear up, the dude just wants to fight... 1 day notice, 12 days, 12 weeks it doesn't matter. He will go crazy without his love of his life, I hope he can look after himself. Addiction comes in many forms, I'm glad he's acknowledged it at least. Love you Volks you'll come back even stronger, I feel this was a needed reality check.

man being just a normal kid in college and being depressed and hearing a modern day warrior like Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski says he experienced it and not known what to do makes me feel a little bit better about myself. Thank you for sharing Alex

Killed me seeing Volk lose like that. He is a LEGEND of the sport and I’m so glad we are able to witness him in the cage. What a man. Great ambassador of the sport.

How can you not love this man? Absolute definition of a champ. Fuckin hell 👏

How can you not love Volk?!! Absolute legend and champ

Love seeing the humanity from such a high risk loss. Volk is a legend, bad ass and inspiration. He'll be back in the win column soon.

This actually broke my heart. As tough as people can be, the mental struggle can be so real. I hope he's ok and can get his head in the right spot. Being open about your emotions is the toughest part. What a brave man to tell people he isn't completely ok. ❤

He’s pouring his heart out about his depression and everyone online just wants to talk about the kick. Fuck this world

Man what a class act. I really feel for him. It takes a lot to go into a fight like that on short notice. I know he will come back stronger.✊🏼 god bless volk 🙏🏽

A piece of my heart and respect is forever with Volk, My man showed up and fought when he didn't even had to, that's a true champion. I just want him to keep defending his belt for now and go strive to be a double champ when the time is right. Baddest Aussie out there!

You earned most people’s respect a long time ago, Alex. You inspire many with your dedication and perseverance and truly live by your nickname, The Great. Thanks champ, can’t wait to see you take on Topuria.

This felt like one of my boys got KO’d. It’s been a while since I felt this invested in a fighter going into a fight. I hope he recovers and also finds life after he’s done fighting. Thanks for the performance Volk! -Jordan

Damn this is probably the most devastating loss for me in a fighter i was supporting. Can't imagine how Volk feels, props to him for touching on how hes been feeling that aint easy. Hope he sorts out whatever is eating him and will come back strong in January

I feel like he is speaking out about what a lot of us are dealing with…hats off to him for bringing light to that issue…and respect to him for taking the fight on short notice 🙌🙏❤️

Respect to Volk, takes courage to move up a division on 11 days notice and travel to Abu Dhabi to take on the champion. A great sportsman in defeat. Looking forward to your next fight!

Volk and Usman deserve massive credit for what they did. They may not have been the fights we necessarily wanted, or the results we wanted, but they saved a massive card, took a chance, and these were career defining fights for both of them. They're not win-2-lose-1 fighters, losses at this level (especially in Usman's case) are huge.

I'm a Makachev supporter but Volk you man, i started liking you more. You are very systematic and a very straight shooter. Lots of love and respect!

Huge respect to him overall for being respectful as a person. Him and Holloway are gentleman in the sport. Never salty and well mannered with their opponents. They show what true sportsmanship is

I hope he can find peace outside the cage. He seems okay directly after the fight, being able to do interviews etc. but don’t be mistaken, he took a heavy shot to the dome. As much as we the fans think he’s all good, we’ve seen time and time again how a KO like this can change a fighter for the worse. It might not happen in the next fight but this is how the fall starts. Compounded with Volk’s attitude of wanting to keep busy, it could be a dangerous cocktail. For his own benefit, he should really take the time and find ways to be able to be okay with not fighting. As Khabib said, Prime Time only come one time. Better not rush the next fight. We all know UFC will squeeze a fighter for all their worth (eg: Tony Ferguson). But as a fan that cares, there’s no rush. He’s already proven to be one of the GOAT’s. Rest up Champ, rooting for ya.

Volk is the man. Balls of steel no excuses

He is my favourite athlete in the world. I’m proud that he represents my country. Really hurt to see him lose. And pray he gets through this and come out stronger. Highest highs and lowest lows in this sport. ✝️❤️

All respect to Volk, he's truly one of the best the sport has produced. I hope to see him take some time and get a deeper understanding of those feelings BEFORE his next fight. You're great the way you are bro, time is never wasted. It's a normal to feel uncertain and uncomfortable during periods of huge transition, learn to accept the feeling and it will pass.

Watching this legend get emotional, gets me emotional. Legend of a man and respect him more now than did before. Still a champ and always will be

How can you not love Volk. Always a class act, win lose or draw. No BS about him, doesn't need to put on a fake persona or engage in all the usual BS you see a lot of fighters doing. He just goes out there and does what he does. Legend

We still love ya no matter what Volk........you make us proud everytime you step in the octagon. With the way you carry yourself in and out of the cage you are a legend mate. Proud of ya Volk 💯👍

Don’t see how anyone can hate this man. Volk is such a class act. Hate to see him struggle with mental health issues. Really goes to show that anyone can deal with mental issues, even such a man as Volk. Someone who’s seen it all done it all in the ufc. The guys a legend. Love your people life is too short. Check in on the homies when you can. Sending love to Alex and his family. ❤️❤️

I don’t think there’s a more fitting nickname in all of combat sports. Alex “The Great” Volkanovski. A true legend in the sport and an all around awesome guy. Sometimes in life we swing big and end up missing but i’d rather swing big and fail than not swing at all. Much love champ I’m sure you’ll come back better than ever.

Most respectable guy in the entire UFC. Dominant and arguably the goat in his division.

Massive respect to Volk, I myself am going through a lot of mental health issues and depression currently. Hearing a man as mentally strong professional and BMF be vulnerable like that really really helped me man. MUCH LOVE VOLK from the UK

Man I’ve never seen Volk like that before. Whenever he said “Keep me busy because if I’m not in camp or fighting it does my head in.” I always thought he meant he wants to be an active champion not that it literally affects him mentally. Man I really hope this lose doesn’t get to him too bad, he gets the help he needs and comes back stronger 💪🏾

Man i am getting teared watching Volk. I am hardcore khabib and Islam fan but Volk just bought me with his honesty and courage Love you man! I hope more fighters learn from You

As someone who deals with depression, shocked to hear it might be something volk struggles with. Hope he gets help if so, he's a great human being

I love the heart of Volk. He always steps up no matter what. He’s the man 💯

That’s a warrior through and through. To be able to talk like this on a world stage. That’s a warrior.

Heartbreaking to see Volk like this

Hearing Volk talk like this really has me hope that he's able to find something to keep him going after fighting. We've seen that story play out too many times. I obviously don't know him personally, but he seems like a good man.

Legend. Hard to see him lose. Not the best decision to take that fight but can't wait to see him back.

Stay strong Volk! You are a legend and one of the GOATS. I hope he gets himself together mentally and gets back to it.

I’m a big Islam fan but all respect to Volk this man is a real champ

We love you Volk! You holding back those tears, you're great. Good man. This whole card was filled with good men.

win or lose, this man is something else. Truly a champion

Thank u Volk! For making this fight happen man . This dude is a beast ! Was sad to see him collapse like that but this is MMA anything can happen to the best ones .

Absolute legend. Courageous to talk openly about his struggles. much respect.

Man, it was so beautiful to see a man like that, absolute killer-killer fighter, killer athlete-of a man become so vulnerable and personable with so much of us on a sensitive topic with him. How crazy brave a guy like that is to someone like me, someone who doesn’t talk openly enough at all. I hope he influenced any of you guys to also be motivated to confess your emotions/dark feelings more. I hope he feels better after that, and I hope he stays strong working towards conquering that. Epic post fight interview

He is a real champ. Never made an excuse, eats the results and wants to move on. We should all learn from him. What a stud. Rooting for you Volk.

Absolute respect for being honest about your mental health. Also mad respect for saying that's not why you lost. Big probs brother. Australia and the world loves you.

Worried a bit about how he’s in these head spaces- had no idea he struggled with those demons

Volk's a class act. Took the defeat like a champ. Obviously with an 11-day notice he's at a huge disadvantage, especially considering how close the first fight was. He stepped up for the fight and nothing but respect to him.

A hero Volk. Hope he gets out of this rough patch. Hormones are the hardest rival, but not undefeated. We love you V.

You gotta love his honesty. Full respect to him for taking the fight. A true champion.

It was really hard to see Volk on the ground bleeding like that man, one of the best to ever do it. Eternal respect.

You can tell how much this fight meant for him it wasn’t just about the money for sure. He’s one of the greatest already and he’ll come back stronger.

Damn. I feel for Volk. I hope he can find other physical activities that push him but are independent and for him. I understand being lost without work so finding places to work for you becomes essential

Absolute respect for this man. Stay strong, champ.

he’s grown on me more than nearly any fighter has, and the way he handled this outcome just cemented my appreciation. this result takes nothing from his accomplishments for me. better to take a tough loss than be afraid of a tough win.

What a guy. Thinks he lost but motivated millions to go for it. You'll always be a winner champ. I was and will always be rooting for Makachev but this guy is something else man. Kudos Aussies, you guys have got a good one.

Absolute legend and a great athlete/sportsmen. Good on ya mate. Rest up

What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger brother. You’ve earned your respect already and you have nothing else to prove. You’re a legend. Just keep doing what you’re doing

Win or lose, you're still the man. Thank you, Volk.

As someone that has my own mental struggles, I sincerely hope that Volk is doing well. Its is always hard to judge form a distance not knowing the actual person, but it feels like his issues are beyond inactivity. He may be using fighting as a distraction or temporary fix that might not address the root of the problem. Mental health is still a difficult subject for men to discuss, I imagine that is exacerbated in the fight game. Major credit to him for opening up like this. I wish he gets all the help and support in the world for doing so. He has always been inspirational to me, but knowing he has sturrles like these only makes him more of a hero in my eyes.

Volk you the man! Takes courage to open up about your mental struggles. You already accomplished massive things in the sport.

Love this guy. All credit to him, always graceful win or lose. What a dude.

the heart this man has, definition of a champion.

He looks heartbroken. I really hope Volk comes out of this stronger and wiser. Whatever the case he has cemented himself as a legend of the sport

Volk you have nothing to be ashamed of brother! One of a kind champion, a great inspiration for the next generation and a true role model for our children. Not only is your country behind you but the whole world has your back my friend!

Lets not be afraid to deal with our emotions. im a musician with the life i always wanted, more and more i struggle with depression. If im not in the studio i fall in a deep hole real quick. My heart is with Volk

Lots of love from Wollongong Volk. You are an Aussie legend and we are all so proud of you. I struggle with mental health issues myself and it is nothing to be ashamed of. We are happy that you are ours!!

Wish him the best. He seems to be unraveling. Mental health is important. Take care of yourself, big guy! 🙏🏿

He took a chance and it is what it is. Much respect for him to have the balls to take that chance. We still love u Volk, ur still the champ. The true fans know what it took for u to make that move and it was high risk and high reward, u don’t lose any credibility. If anything u gain some more love for ur courage to take that fight on short notice and keep us fans entertained and a reason why we love this sport so much because of fighters like u. Much respect. From 🇨🇦 Love this guy, one of my favourites.

Man you are value its bigger than being a fighter you are beautiful person that make you the best fighter in the world. sending postive energy

He has definitely developed some attachment issues with his life as a fighter. Retirement will be hard for him and he is already 35. I think this happens to many hyper motivated people. He has always been at disadvantage but he was always talented at things he did,may be that talent developed a kind of narcissism in him that forces him to keep feeding it. Like he said in the interview that he starts losing his mind when he is not fighting. Volk needs help and i believe his wife will surely help him out. They have been wirh each other for so long. Love and respect to this legend.

Great athlete, Great Fighter, Great human being- Alexander "THE GREAT" Volkanovski! Love you man! keep your head up legend!

You are an amazing human being. Bro I am from NSW and 48 and man I have taken some knocks bro. Do what is best for you.

Wow made me tear up. This man is a absolute stud. And to see him holding back the tears is shows he’s a human being and has same problems alit of people have. 🙏

Man, I feel for volk so much. Mental struggles are in my opinion the hardest battle we all face.

An impressive man. A wonderful example. Peace upon him and his family

You're an inspiration Volk, keep your head up. Remember it's not about the result it's about leaving your character in tact. Losing a fight takes nothing away from who you are. Thank you for your honesty and perseverance. We all will be cheering for you when you step back into that octagon and in life.

Man Volk will always be one of my favorite fighters if not favorite, absolutely heartbreaking result with this fight can’t imagine how he’s feeling but I know he’s gonna keep moving forward with class

Volk is the definition of a champion! All class and a total badass!!

Huge respect to Volk, even though i don't root for him against Topuria, not many fighters would take loss like he did! absolute legend!

Mad respect to Volk! This loss obviously hit him hard.

He looked strong in the clinch. Would have loved to see more grappling Exchanges.

Legend of the sport. Win, lose or draw, Volk is a champion! Definitely one of my favourite fighters without doubt. Gutted he lost tonight, but he stepped up and dared to be great, can't ask for more than that ❤

For anyone who's never had a professional fighter try to hurt them, it's like nothing you've ever experienced on earth. I've boxed a great number of people who were much better than me, and sometimes I won, but the times I won and lost, you could almost never predict going into the fight. Once you're in there and you start measuring one another and those first few hits start landing, you have to adjust to what you see and what you feel. Sometimes your mind and eyes can see the openings but your body just isn't there on the night even if you're in great shape. I have three kids, I never fought when I had kids , but I know why Volk was "hesitant" he just saw his new baby be born, and he had something to live for, that feeling is hard to shake. Any punch, any kick by one of these guys could change your life forever. There's no shame in losing at this level. If you want to be the best, you have to learn to love defeat and press ahead. Volk will be fine. Unless he's a great actor as well as a fighter, he looks good.

This speech reminds me of matt hughes how he was never the same after he left mma behind. Keep your head up Volk there is more to fighting.

Lots of love from Australia Volk, you're a legend for taking this fight against a very tough champion in a weight class above you. Looking forward to your comeback fight!

What a legend, total respect! I feel what you're saying Volk. You can have your family that you love, as I do. But if you aren't participating in your passion it drags you to dark places. I'm a grassroots car racer, haven't been able to race it since march because of financial struggles. It does your head in. More so from not being able to participate in my passion than the financial struggles themselves. We're all behind you champ.

Damn man I feel for him. And the crazy thing is I feel like if they fought 10 times it would be 50/50 so it sucks that we might never see this again. Even though we should because this was on 10 days notice

Este si es un BMF AL IGUAL QUE KAMARU Respeto se lo merece un hombre sin miedo no siempre se gana hay que tener los huevos de volkanovski los campeones dominante tienen una mentalidad diferente gracias volkanovski y usman por salvar el evento espero te puedas recuperar nos vemos el próximo año campeón 😊

2 of my favourite fighters, hate that someone had to lose like this