The UFC 310 delivered one of the most thrilling heavyweight clashes, pitting Russian Alexander Volkov against Frenchman Ciryl Gane in a highly anticipated rematch. The fight, which took place on the event’s main card, ended with Gane securing a controversial split decision victory, sparking widespread debate among Volkov’s supporters and MMA fans alike.
A Controversial Decision
The match was highly competitive, but the decision by the controversial judge Adalaide Byrd, known for similar rulings in boxing, tipped the scales in favor of “Bon Gamin.” This decision outraged Volkov and his fans, especially as he believed he had emerged victorious.
In a strong post-fight statement, Ivan Panikov, Volkov’s manager, stated:
“The judge tainted this fight with her controversial decision, but we are grateful to the UFC for informing us that Volkov remains the number one contender for the title, regardless of the match’s outcome.”
A Potential Deal with the UFC
According to Panikov’s comments to Russia’s “TASS” agency, it seems a plan has been arranged with the UFC to ensure Volkov gets a shot at the title, bypassing Ciryl Gane. He added:
“Volkov delivered an outstanding performance, and his previous winning streak proves he deserves a title opportunity. This fight won’t derail his journey to the top.”
The Future of the UFC Heavyweight Division
Following this setback, Volkov remains ranked third in the UFC heavyweight division, while Ciryl Gane is already planning his next fight and aiming for a swift return. Meanwhile, a potential showdown between current champion Jon Jones and interim champion Tom Aspinall is anticipated in 2025.
Can Volkov quickly regain his standing and move closer to the heavyweight title? Will he get another chance to prove himself against Ciryl Gane or one of the division’s champions? The coming months are bound to deliver plenty of excitement.
Expectations from Volkov’s Fans
Russian fans and UFC enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the organization’s decisions in the upcoming months, especially with rising competition in the heavyweight division. If Panikov’s statements hold true, Volkov could be on the verge of achieving his dream of claiming the title.
The fight continues… and the next round might be decisive!
