Once upon a time, Thiago Alves was the most physical and dangerous striker in the welterweight division. UFC commentator Joe Rogan heaped on praise about his “brilliance at the basics”, as Alves chopped down waves of opponents with meat and potatoes boxing and thudding low kicks.
At 35 years old, it’s no surprise that Alves is not that same athlete. Speed declined, explosive power is harder to come by, and reaction time has certainly slowed.
We have seen many veteran fighters adapt their styles to their changing physical capabilites. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua had great success in the light heavyweight division after honing his skills as a lower volume counter puncher.