Alexander Volkov is making waves in the UFC heavyweight division, not just as a formidable fighter but also as a trained engineer. The Moscow native currently ranks No. 2 in the heavyweight lineup, a testament to his technical prowess and athletic talent, which gives him a unique edge in mixed martial arts.
Excitement builds for Volkov’s return to the octagon as he prepares to face Jailton Almeida at UFC 312 in Abu Dhabi, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET. This bout marks his comeback after a nearly year-long hiatus, following a split-decision loss to Ciryl Gane in December.
Volkov’s journey into both fields began with a solid educational foundation; he graduated from Bauman Moscow State Technical University in 2011 with an engineering degree, all while starting his MMA career. By the time he completed his education, he held a professional fight record of nine victories against three defeats. His early career saw a swift rise, highlighted by a notable win over former UFC heavyweight champion Ricco Rodriguez.
Volkov is often referred to by his nickname “Drago,” inspired by Ivan Drago from the film Rocky IV, a nod to his physical stature of 6-foot-7 (2.01 meters) and the tough persona of the iconic character. His moniker reflects both his strength and the intense competitive spirit he brings to the sport.
Throughout his career, Volkov has faced various triumphs and setbacks, including a significant knockout loss to Derrick Lewis. However, his perseverance has kept him among the heavyweight elite. The recent retirement of Jon Jones has vacated the championship title, adding further intrigue to the division as fighters like Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane vie for the interim title—both of whom have previously defeated Volkov.
As he prepares to take on Almeida, who currently holds the No. 5 ranking and is on a two-fight win streak, Volkov recognizes the challenge ahead. A victory could not only resurge his title aspirations but also reshape the dynamics of the heavyweight division. As new contenders emerge, Volkov’s blend of athleticism and intellectual background continues to captivate fans, making him a standout figure to watch in the octagon.