The heavyweight division takes center stage this weekend as Ciryl “Bon Gamin” Gane steps back into the Octagon for the first time in over a year to face Alexander “Drago” Volkov in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 310: Pantoja vs. Asakura. The action unfolds on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
This isn't just another fight; it's a battle between two of the most elite strikers in the UFC heavyweight division. Both fighters come in with renewed skillsets and aspirations for UFC gold, making this showdown an unmissable clash.
Ciryl Gane: The Comeback Trail
For Ciryl Gane, the past year has been one of reflection and rebuilding. The French superstar last competed in September 2023, securing a statement victory against Tai Tuivasa in front of his home crowd in Paris. However, a crushing loss to Jon Jones for the vacant heavyweight title earlier that year has fueled Gane’s determination to reclaim his place at the top.
“It's been over a year since I fought, and I can't wait to feel the energy of the crowd again,” Gane said. “This fight is not just about winning; it’s about proving that I’m still one of the best in the world.”
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Currently ranked No. 2 in the division, Gane knows that a win over the third-ranked Volkov could position him for another shot at the title.
Alexander Volkov: On a Tear
Standing in Gane’s way is Alexander Volkov, a rejuvenated heavyweight on a four-fight win streak. Since their first meeting in 2021, where Gane claimed a dominant unanimous decision victory, Volkov has only suffered one loss—to current interim champion Tom Aspinall. His recent dismantling of Sergei Pavlovich showcased a masterclass in striking, solidifying his claim as one of the most dangerous men in the division.
“The people were surprised by how Volkov handled Pavlovich, but I wasn’t,” Gane noted. “I know his skillset; he’s always been a great striker. That hasn’t changed.”
Volkov, who was initially slated to fight Gane in October, is eager to avenge his previous loss and prove that he’s evolved since their first encounter.
What’s at Stake?
With the heavyweight division in flux following Jon Jones’ victory over Stipe Miocic and the rise of interim champion Tom Aspinall, Gane and Volkov both understand the significance of this bout. As Gane put it, “This fight feels like a semifinal to the belt. I’m number two, he’s number three—it just makes sense.”
The rematch will feature some key differences. Unlike their first five-round encounter, this fight is scheduled for three rounds, providing a different dynamic that could favor Volkov’s precision or Gane’s speed and mobility. Additionally, the larger Octagon at the T-Mobile Arena might offer Gane more room to utilize his trademark footwork and technical striking.
The Road Ahead
For Gane, the path back to UFC gold starts with a definitive win over Volkov. “After Saturday, we’ll sit down with the UFC and talk about what’s next,” Gane said. “But for now, my focus is on putting on a dominant performance.”
Volkov, however, has his sights set on spoiling Gane’s return and staking his own claim for a title shot. With both fighters at the peak of their careers, fans can expect a high-stakes chess match with explosive potential.
Catch all the action live this Saturday, December 7, 2024, from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Prelims begin at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, with the main card kicking off on PPV at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT.