Alexander Volkov

Alexander Volkov (born October 24, 1988) is a Russian professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Heavyweight division for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). A professional MMA competitor since 2009, Volkov previously competed for the M-1 Global promotion, as well as Bellator MMA. He is a former heavyweight champion in both promotions. As of September 12, 2023, he is #6 in the UFC heavyweight rankings. Mixed martial arts career M-1 Global In 2008 Volkov signed with the M-1 Global. His professional MMA debut came in April 2009 when he defeated Nikolay Pleshakov by TKO (punches) in just 80 seconds. Volkov followed this up a month later with another TKO victory, this time against Adam Alikhanov in just 20 seconds. A further month later, Volkov suffered his first professional loss at the hands of Akhmed Sultanov. Midway through the first round, Volkov was forced to tap to an armbar. Volkov then went on a two-fight win streak, both via TKO. In December 2009, after just eight months as a professional fighter, Volkov faced Ibragim Magomedov at M-1 Challenge 20 - 2009 Finals. Coming in as an underdog, his team simply wanted him to make it through all three rounds, but Volkov exceeded expectations by winning via unanimous decision. Volkov was awarded an M-1 Global ring "as a reward for exceptional performance".