What's Happening?
Anatoly Malykhin, a two-division ONE Championship titleholder, has shared his insights on the upcoming fight between Alexander Volkov and Jailton Almeida at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi. Malykhin believes that
Volkov, who has significantly improved his takedown defense, will not be taken down by Almeida and will finish the fight in the stand-up before the third round. Volkov has been preparing with skilled wrestlers to enhance his defense, making him a formidable opponent. Almeida, who last fought in January 2025, boasts a record of 22 wins and three losses, while Volkov has 38 wins out of 49 professional MMA fights.
Why It's Important?
The fight between Volkov and Almeida is significant as it could impact the rankings and future matchups in the heavyweight division of the UFC. Volkov's improved skills and Malykhin's confidence in his victory highlight the competitive nature of the division. A win for Volkov could position him as a top contender, potentially leading to high-profile fights against other leading heavyweights like Tom Aspinall. For Almeida, a victory would solidify his standing and possibly lead to more significant opportunities within the UFC.
What's Next?
The outcome of the fight will likely influence the future trajectories of both fighters. If Volkov wins, he may be considered for a title shot or a fight against other top contenders. Almeida, on the other hand, will need to reassess his strategy and possibly work on his takedown techniques if he loses. The fight's result will also be closely watched by other fighters and analysts, as it could set the stage for future heavyweight matchups.
