Alexander Volkov's split-decision loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC 310 was a closely contested and tactical heavyweight battle. Despite showcasing his power and grappling improvements, Volkov's inability to dominate in key moments left him short of victory. With a record of 38-11, Volkov remains one of the top contenders in the UFC Heavyweight division, currently holding the #3 ranking. After this setback, Volkov will look to regain momentum by facing another top-five contender.

One possible opponent could be Curtis Blaydes, who is also seeking redemption after suffering a knockout loss to Tom Aspinall at UFC 304. Volkov and Blaydes previously faced off in June 2020, with Blaydes securing a unanimous decision victory. A rematch between the two could be an exciting and significant fight to determine who stays in the upper echelon of the division.

Curtis Blaydes

Curtis Blaydes' recent performance against Tom Aspinall at UFC 304 left him with a first-round KO loss for the interim UFC Heavyweight Championship, further emphasizing the need for him to bounce back. Blaydes has been known for his exceptional wrestling, but his striking has been a point of vulnerability, as seen in his defeats to Derrick Lewis and Tom Aspinall. Blaydes’ record stands at 18-5 (1 NC), and he currently sits at #5 in the UFC Heavyweight rankings.

Blaydes’ next move could involve a showdown with Volkov, given the history between the two. Their first encounter was a tactical war, with Blaydes using his wrestling and pressure to outpoint Volkov. A rematch would be compelling, as both men have evolved in recent years. Blaydes could also find himself matched with other high-profile heavyweights like Sergei Pavlovich or Tai Tuivasa, as he aims to get back in title contention.

Blaydes’ wrestling-heavy style could create an intriguing dynamic with Volkov's striking, offering another opportunity to prove his skills and solidify his place as a top contender in the heavyweight division.

Alexander Volkov

* Professional Record: 38-11
* UFC Heavyweight Ranking: #3
* Last Five Fights:
* Loss vs. Ciryl Gane – Decision (split), UFC 310, Round 3
* Win vs. Sergei Pavlovich – Decision (unanimous), UFC on ABC: Whittaker vs. Aliskerov
* Win vs. Tai Tuivasa – Submission (Ezekiel choke), UFC 293
* Win vs. Alexander Romanov – TKO (punches), UFC Fight Night
* Win vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik – TKO (punches), UFC Fight Night

Curtis Blaydes

* Professional Record: 18-5 (1 NC)
* UFC Heavyweight Ranking: #5
* Last Five Fights:
* Loss vs. Tom Aspinall – KO (punches), UFC 304, Round 1
* Win vs. Jailton Almeida – KO (punches), UFC 299
* Loss vs. Sergei Pavlovich – TKO (punches), UFC Fight Night
* Win vs. Chris Daukaus – TKO (punches), UFC on ESPN
* Win vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik – Decision (unanimous), UFC 266