UFC Title Fights: Russian Fighters in the Spotlight
Just a week ago, the UFC was poised to showcase two title fights featuring Russian fighters in prestigious categories. Alexander Volkov's victory over Sergei Pavlovich secured him the third spot in the heavyweight rankings, setting the stage for a potential rematch with Tom Aspinall, the temporary belt holder. Similarly, Magomed Ankalaev was seen as a prime contender for the light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. However, both fighters faced unexpected setbacks as neither will compete for the title in the upcoming tournament.
Ankalaev, who boasts an impressive unbeaten streak of 12 fights since September 2018, is understandably disappointed. His record positions him as a formidable contender, especially given that many of his potential rivals have previously lost to Pereira. Despite his hopes for a title shot, the UFC has other plans for Pereira, leaving Ankalaev to face Alexander Rakic instead, a fighter currently on a two-fight losing streak. This unexpected turn of events has raised questions about Ankalaev's future in the title race.
The Stakes for Volkov and Gan
On the other hand, Volkov's journey appears more straightforward. After his recent victory, he ambitiously challenged heavyweight champion Jon Jones, although such a matchup seems unlikely. Volkov has risen from seventh to third in the rankings, but his past struggles against top-tier opponents cast doubt on his title aspirations. His upcoming fight against Cyril Gan, whom he lost to in June 2021, will be pivotal in confirming his elite status. The bout is set for October 26 at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, marking Gan's return to the Octagon after a lengthy absence of nearly 14 months.
Both fighters have much to prove. While Gan has faced setbacks in title fights, he remains a tough opponent with a striking advantage. The odds favor Gan in their rematch, reflecting the challenges Volkov faces in reclaiming his position among the elite. Meanwhile, Ankalaev's match against Rakic will also be critical, as he aims to avoid past mistakes and secure a definitive victory to solidify his title contention. As the UFC landscape evolves, the outcomes of these fights could reshape the future for these Russian fighters.
- The stakes are high for both Ankalaev and Volkov as they navigate the complexities of the UFC title landscape. For Ankalaev, a victory over Rakic could reaffirm his status as a top contender, but he must be cautious not to repeat past mistakes that have cost him in critical moments. On the other hand, Volkov needs to prove that he can compete with the best, especially after previously falling short against top fighters. The outcomes of their upcoming fights will not only impact their careers but could also influence the title picture in both the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions.
