Alexander Volkov moved one step closer to another UFC heavyweight title shot after earning a disputed split-decision win over Brazil’s Jailton Almeida at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi. The Russian veteran, who has long campaigned for another crack at the championship, benefited from a scorecard many fans and pundits called questionable.
Almeida opened strong, securing an early takedown with a high-crotch lift and controlling the first round on the mat. Volkov, however, turned the tide late in the frame, reversing position and landing heavy ground strikes — some appearing to hit the back of Almeida’s head.
The Brazilian seemed to rebound in the second and third rounds with his grappling and pressure, yet the judges awarded Volkov a split-decision victory (28-29, 29-28, 29-28), prompting surprise in the arena.
The result follows Volkov’s own frustration at being on the wrong end of a controversial decision against Ciryl Gane last year. Now ranked second in the heavyweight division, Volkov says he’s ready for a title rematch — whether against Tom Aspinall or Gane.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment,” Volkov said post-fight. “It doesn’t matter who wins the belt tonight — I’ll be next.”
