UFC 321: Volkov vs. Almeida takes place on October 25, 2025, in Manchester, England. This pivotal heavyweight clash pits Russian striking technician Alexander Volkov against Brazilian powerhouse and submission ace Jailton Almeida. With both men positioned near the top of the rankings, the winner is expected to move one step closer to a UFC title shot.
Alexander Volkov
Alexander Volkov (37–11) remains one of the most technically refined and battle-tested heavyweights in the sport. A veteran of over 45 professional fights, Volkov combines precision kickboxing, composure, and durability to outpoint and outlast many of the division’s best. Standing 6’7”, the Russian utilizes his long frame and sharp jab to control distance, pairing it with punishing body kicks and counter knees that have finished 24 of his opponents by knockout.
A former Bellator and M-1 Global champion, Volkov’s recent run has featured a mix of statement victories and razor-thin decisions. He’s earned wins over Sergei Pavlovich, Tai Tuivasa, Marcin Tybura, and Curtis Blaydes while dropping a close decision to Ciryl Gane. Over time, Volkov has shored up his defensive wrestling and improved his cardio, but persistent pressure grapplers remain his toughest stylistic challenge.
Alexander Volkov – Last 5 Fights:
Win vs. Sergei Pavlovich – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC on ABC 6, July 6, 2024
Win vs. Tai Tuivasa – KO (Body Kick/Punches) – UFC 299, March 9, 2024
Win vs. Marcin Tybura – TKO (Elbows) – UFC 293, September 9, 2023
Loss vs. Ciryl Gane – Decision (Split) – UFC 310, December 7, 2024
Loss vs. Tom Aspinall – Submission (Armbar) – UFC FN Volkov vs. Aspinall, March 19, 2022
Volkov’s keys to victory are controlling distance, maintaining balance on takedown defense, and using his long-range weapons—especially front kicks and knees—to punish Almeida’s entries.
Jailton Almeida
Jailton Almeida (22–3) enters the bout as one of the UFC’s most dominant grapplers, known for overwhelming opponents with relentless takedowns and smothering top control. The Brazilian heavyweight has the highest control time and top position percentage in UFC history at his weight class, and his aggressive submission game has produced 13 career finishes on the mat.
Almeida’s recent wins over Serghei Spivac, Alexander Romanov, and Derrick Lewis highlight his blueprint—takedown, advance position, and finish. While his loss to Curtis Blaydes exposed some vulnerabilities when unable to secure top control, Almeida remains one of the most dangerous fighters early in bouts, with explosiveness that few can match in the opening rounds.
Jailton Almeida – Last 5 Fights:
Win vs. Serghei Spivac – TKO (Punches) – UFC 311, January 18, 2025
Win vs. Alexander Romanov – Submission (RNC) – UFC 302, June 1, 2024
Loss vs. Curtis Blaydes – KO (Punches) – UFC 299, March 9, 2024
Win vs. Derrick Lewis – Decision (Unanimous) – UFC FN Almeida vs. Lewis, November 4, 2023
Win vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik – Submission (RNC) – UFC on ABC 4, May 13, 2023
Almeida’s path to victory is clear—close the distance early, secure a takedown, and dominate from top position. His combination of strength, timing, and grappling efficiency makes him a nightmare for any opponent caught underneath.
Fight Breakdown
This matchup showcases the timeless striker-versus-grappler dynamic. Volkov’s goal will be to manage range and keep Almeida from getting inside, where the Brazilian can initiate body locks or single-leg entries. Almeida’s challenge will be navigating Volkov’s length and striking volume to drag the fight to the canvas, where he thrives.
If the bout stays standing, Volkov’s clean technique and reach advantage could frustrate Almeida. However, once the Brazilian secures a takedown, his top control and ground transitions can quickly overwhelm even experienced opponents. The key factor will be how well Volkov can defend during the opening rounds when Almeida is at his most explosive.
Prediction
Expect Almeida to waste no time closing distance, chaining takedowns, and working toward back control. Volkov’s composure and striking may buy him moments of success at range, but Almeida’s grappling edge and finishing instincts are likely to define the outcome.
Prediction: Jailton Almeida def. Alexander Volkov via Submission (Round 2)
A win for Almeida cements his place among the division’s elite and sets up a potential title eliminator. For Volkov, a victory would mark another late-career resurgence and move him closer to the only accolade missing from his storied résumé—UFC gold.