Ever wondered how UFC fighters control diet to keep their weight within the limit on weigh-in day? Here's the UFC featherweight champ, Alexander Volkanovski's dietician, Jordan Sullivan's inferences about 'The Great's' weigh-in diet.

To be scale-ready on weigh-in day, Sullivan makes sure Volkanovski's diet stays on point. So what does the Australian eat? Let’s find out.

Alexander Volkanovski’s UFC Fight Camp Diet

"You can’t pull something like this off unless you are on top of your training and nutrition year-round," said Sullivan about Volkanovski's per-fight preparations during his interview with Men’s Health back in 2023.

Subsequently, he spoke about Volk's diet and said, "We put a lot of effort into it. We get Michelin-star chefs from all around the world to help us create recipes. And [the fighters] really look forward to it."

Meal 1: Mushroom Omelet with homemade sundried tomato pesto.

Meal 2: Lamb chops with homemade mint sauce.

Post-Lunch: Homemade strawberry cheesecake

Pre-training: Performative candy for energy

Meal 3: Surf & Turf( Steak and Shrimp) with kangaroo fillet and bone marrow.

Dessert: Chocolate caramel with peanut butter mousse

During his conversation with Men’s Health, Sullivan revealed that he ensures Volkanovski gets 2,200 calories, 100 grams of carbohydrates, 190 grams of protein, and 125 grams of fat. That’s not everything, though. The main thing is: how does he cut water weight?

How Does Alexander Volkanovski Lose the Water Weight?

Cutting water weight is one of the most dangerous aspects of MMA. When done rightly, it is the most pivotal step to get a fighter within the weigh-in limit. But botched weight cuts can cause serious health issues.

To ensure a safer weight cut, Volkanovski follows a strategy centered on manipulating sodium levels and hydration.

According to Sullivan, less salt means less water retention; he makes sure that ‘The Great’ increases his water intake to flush out any excess weight. We know, it might sound the total opposite of cutting water-weight, but it is actually a calculated strategy built around multiple daily training sessions, heavy cardio, and explosive drills.

Sullivan’s way of doing things is quite simple: don’t starve, take a scientific approach, and make sure not to harm yourself. And considering 'The Great's' record of never missing weight, it can be safely said that Sullivan's technique works perfectly for him.

After defeating Diego Lopes in the featherweight title rematch at UFC 325, who do you think will be the next to challenge Volkanovski?

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Written by

Suryakant Das

Edited by

Souvik Roy