Alexander Volkov is set to face Ciryl Gane in a heavyweight rematch at UFC 308 on October 26 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Bookmakers favor Gane, given his convincing victory in their first encounter. Despite the Frenchman’s year-long absence from the octagon, analysts believe he will showcase an improved version of himself with enhanced skills.
Volkov has performed well in recent fights, but still lags behind Gane in terms of reflexes and striking diversity. The Russian has made critical errors in pivotal career moments, and this pattern may repeat itself.
Alexander Volkov
- Recipient of 1 UFC “Fight of the Night” and 2 “Performance of the Night” bonuses. Black belt in Ashihara Karate, brown belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kyokushin Karate.
- Record: 48 fights, 38 wins, 10 losses.
This rematch is Volkov’s chance to solidify his position as a title contender. Motivated by the disappointment of his previous performance, “Drago” is expected to be faster, smarter, and more aggressive this time around.
What to expect from Volkov against Gane?
Volkov will likely start with sharp front kicks to the body to displace Gane from the center of the octagon. He’ll employ devastating low kicks combined with one-two combinations. Alexander will attempt to confuse his opponent with kicks at various levels from long range. As the fight progresses, Drago will intensify the pressure, incorporating heavy middle kicks and side kicks to the head.
Volkov will aim to close the distance, unleashing diverse combinations to push the Frenchman against the cage. Once there, he’ll methodically attack with straight punches and use kicks to cut off escape routes.
If Drago manages to block Gane’s series, he’ll immediately counter with a three-punch combination to the head. Volkov will seek to escape the clinch quickly but may attempt a takedown if the opportunity arises.
Volkov’s chances of victory
Alexander will be better prepared tactically and psychologically than in their first encounter. He’ll need to frequently switch between offensive and defensive strategies, but if he manages this effectively, he could win on points.
While it’s challenging to knock out Gane, and he’s always ready to counter aggressively, Alexander may still attempt to finish the Frenchman against the cage. However, a decision victory for Drago seems more likely than a knockout.
Ciryl Gane
- Recipient of 1 UFC “Fight of the Night” and 3 “Performance of the Night” bonuses. Former interim UFC Heavyweight Champion. Former TKO Heavyweight Champion.
- Record: 14 fights, 12 wins, 2 losses.
Gane hasn’t fought in a year, dedicating this time to training and aiming to reclaim his former standing. Losses to top-tier fighters have shattered his aura of invincibility, but he remained sharp and bold in his fight against Spivak, showing no psychological barriers. Gane’s coach has a special approach to facing Volkov, ensuring the Russian will be thoroughly studied.
What to expect from Gane against Volkov?
Gane will focus on kicks to the lower abdomen and legs. He’ll evade low kicks and immediately counter with knee attacks. Initially, Gane will use double jabs to gauge distance and score points. Later, he’ll incorporate powerful front kicks and lightning-fast hooks at close range.
Gane will attempt to land long crosses and throw several sharp middle kicks. During stand-up exchanges, he may retreat to the cage, then engage Volkov in a clinch and attack with knees to the body.
Gane will likely increase the tempo at the start of the second round, boldly engaging in exchanges. If Alexander manages to pressure him effectively, the Frenchman will try to cut angles and carefully break him down with short combinations.
Gane’s chances of victory
Gane can capitalize on his main advantages of mobility and speed to secure a decision victory. He’ll work the body extensively and attack between Volkov’s arms, aiming to score points and drain his opponent’s stamina.
However, this strategy will only work if Gane can fully occupy Alexander’s attention with feints and devise a way to avoid the Russian’s kicks.
Alexander Volkov vs. Ciryl Gane: Fight prediction
Volkov will likely give his all in the first round to disrupt Gane’s emotional balance. A fresh Alexander could overwhelm the Frenchman with a barrage of kicks and even outperform him in hand exchanges.
In the second round, Gane’s speed will likely come into play, potentially putting him ahead in significant strikes. To regain the initiative, Volkov will need to come up with something unexpected. If he fails to do so, Gane could take two rounds and emerge victorious once again.
After their previous fight, Gane struggled to recover from the kicks he absorbed and will now be better prepared to block and evade them. This may prevent Volkov from fully utilizing his arsenal. While the fight is expected to be close, Gane is favored to win once more.