The towering presence of Alexander Volkov, nicknamed “Drago,” has been a fixture in the heavyweight division of mixed martial arts. With a striking frame of 6'7", Volkov brings more than just physical dominance to the Octagon—his technical precision and resilience make him a formidable contender.
Riding a four-fight winning streak, Volkov is poised to face Ciryl Gane this Saturday at UFC 310 in a rematch that could define his legacy.
From Kickboxing Prodigy to UFC Contender: The Making of Drago
Alexander Volkov’s martial arts journey began in his hometown of Moscow, Russia, where he trained in Kyokushin Karate and kickboxing. His striking prowess quickly earned him recognition, leading to a successful stint in professional kickboxing. Transitioning to MMA in 2009, Volkov honed his skills in promotions like M-1 Global and Bellator, capturing the Bellator Heavyweight Championship in 2013.
Despite early success, Volkov faced setbacks that tested his mettle. However, his determination never wavered, and his performances improved as he gained experience.
Volkov’s UFC Journey: A Path of Growth and Redemption
Volkov debuted in the UFC in 2016, defeating Timothy Johnson via split decision. His striking acumen and calculated approach became hallmarks of his style. Notable victories over Stefan Struve, Fabrício Werdum, and Alistair Overeem solidified his place among the heavyweight elite.
Yet, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Volkov has faced challenges against top contenders, including Derrick Lewis and Ciryl Gane, the latter being his opponent this Saturday. These losses became crucial learning moments for the Russian powerhouse, shaping his evolution as a fighter.
A Four-Fight Streak of Dominance
Volkov’s current winning streak is a testament to his adaptability and resilience. Key victories in this run include:
Marcin Tybura: A dominant unanimous decision win showcased Volkov’s ability to control the pace against a durable opponent.
Jairzinho Rozenstruik: Volkov’s first-round TKO against the heavy-hitting Rozenstruik proved his ability to handle power punchers.
Alexander Romanov: Another first-round TKO demonstrated his precision and ability to exploit defensive lapses.
Tai Tuivasa: A clinical striking performance culminated in a brutal knockout, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dangerous strikers in the division.
Lessons from Gane vs. Volkov I
Volkov first faced Ciryl Gane in June 2021, suffering a unanimous decision loss. Gane’s speed, movement, and striking versatility posed significant challenges. However, Volkov has since worked tirelessly to address these gaps, focusing on improving his footwork and counter-striking to handle Gane’s elusive style.
What to Expect in the Rematch
Volkov enters UFC 310 as a revitalized contender with momentum on his side. Here’s what to look forward to in this pivotal clash:
Improved Mobility: Expect Volkov to use lateral movement and distance management to counter Gane’s footwork.
Calculated Aggression: With an enhanced ability to finish fights, Volkov will likely pressure Gane, looking for opportunities to land powerful combinations.
Grappling Prowess: While primarily a striker, Volkov’s improved grappling could play a crucial role in neutralizing Gane’s rhythm.
For Alexander Volkov, this fight isn’t just about redemption—it’s about cementing his place as a top contender in the heavyweight division. A win over Ciryl Gane would position him closer to a title shot, proving that his lessons from past setbacks have truly paid off.