Alexander Volkanovski’s life has been an extraordinary narrative, resembling a captivating movie script. However, whether the Movember advocate succeeded in winning over everyone as his fan remains a lingering question.
Despite captivating MMA enthusiasts worldwide and establishing himself as a UFC legend, Volkanovski has not yet managed to win over the affection of the Mayor of Wollongong, who harshly criticized his illustrious and decorated career in mixed martial arts.
Wollongong Mayor slams Alex Volkanovski’s UFC career
The Lord Mayor of Wollongong, Gordon Bradbery, recently expressed his views on the global sensation Alexander Volkanovski. According to the mayor, regardless of Volkanovski’s remarkable accomplishments, all of his achievements have been attained solely through participation in MMA, a sport he perceives as violent and unsuitable for young individuals, leading him to withhold support for it.
“I have a responsibility as the lord mayor of the city and as a responsible human being not to endorse those things which are violent,” Gordon said.
Mr Bradberry, please reconsider giving the key to the city to @alexvolkanovski. He deserves it. As someone who lives outside of AUS but who’s seen the extraordinary feats that Alex has accomplished, I insist he is worthy of the key. 1/
— Fredo (@AintFredoYou) July 17, 2023
The mayor, aged 72, further criticized MMA as a whole, asserting that the sport merely fosters violence, which goes against the principles upheld by his town that consistently opposes any form of promoting violence.
“It is really important that we put a message out to young people and more specifically now with brain trauma on the agenda. What sort of endorsement is this if I put that nomination forward when his profile is supporting an activity like that?” Gordon added.
Alexander Volkanovski reached the top of one of the toughest sports in the world, while being a true role model & great representation for any region he comes from…
And he gets disrespectfully rejected by his own mayor Gordon Bradbery, because it's too "violent" #ufc
— Weasle (@ThaWeasle) July 17, 2023
“The Great” affiliates with Movember
A group of Australian friends launched the Movember movement in 2003, and it has now spread throughout the world. Every year in November participants grow moustaches to promote awareness for causes relating to men’s health.
Volkanovski, recognized for his philanthropic efforts and humanitarian endeavors, has previously been associated with the Movember campaign, garnering significant praise for his involvement in the annual program.
It appears that as long as Bradbery remains in his position, Volkanovski might face challenges when it comes to receiving support within his hometown.
