Alexander Volkov: The UFC’s Ivan Drago of Engineering
Alexander Volkov stands out in the UFC heavyweight landscape as a skilled athlete and a trained engineer. The Moscow-born fighter currently holds the No. 2 ranking in the heavyweight division. His dual expertise in both sports and engineering makes him a unique figure in mixed martial arts.
Volkov’s Return to the Octagon
After nearly a year away, Volkov is set to make his return against Jailton Almeida at UFC 312. This highly anticipated match will take place in Abu Dhabi, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET. Volkov’s last bout resulted in a split-decision loss to Ciryl Gane in December of the previous year.
Early Background and Career Development
Volkov graduated from Bauman Moscow State Technical University in 2011 with a degree in engineering. At that time, he already boasted a professional MMA record of nine wins and three losses. Beginning his training at a young age, he quickly gained prominence across Europe.
- Graduated: 2011
- Professional Record at Graduation: 9 wins, 3 losses
Throughout 2011, he added five more victories to his record, including a significant win against former UFC heavyweight champion Ricco Rodriguez. Volkov joined the UFC in late 2016 and headlined his first event just three fights into his tenure.
Narrative and Nickname: The Ivan Drago Influence
Volkov’s nickname “Drago” pays homage to the character Ivan Drago from the film Rocky IV, portrayed by Dolph Lundgren. Standing at an impressive height of 6-foot-7 (2.01 meters), Volkov appreciates the comparison to the iconic character, stating it comes from his physical resemblance.
Heavyweight Division Dynamics
Volkov’s journey has consisted of both triumphs and challenges. His first major defeat arrived through a knockout from Derrick Lewis. Nevertheless, his continued dedication has earned him the second spot in UFC heavyweight rankings.
The division has experienced notable changes recently. With Jon Jones’ retirement, the championship title remains vacant. Currently, Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane are vying for the interim title, both of whom possess previous victories over Volkov.
Current Challenge and Future Prospects
Facing Almeida, who is ranked No. 5 and is currently on a two-fight win streak, Volkov is poised for a significant challenge. A victory against Almeida could pave the way for a potential title shot.
As the heavyweight division evolves, the emergence of a new champion could reignite opportunities for contenders like Volkov. Fans are eager to witness how his career develops. His blend of athletic skill and intellectual background makes him one of the most captivating figures in the octagon.
