UFC heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov shifts his focus away from the championship belt following his recent victory in Abu Dhabi.
UFC heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov has announced that he is officially done chasing the prestigious championship belt, following a dominant victory on the preliminary card last weekend.
The high-stakes event took place in Abu Dhabi, where Volkov secured a stoppage win over fellow heavyweight competitor Rizvan Kuniev to continue his steady ascent up the division rankings.
Despite his latest impressive performance and ongoing push for a title opportunity, the fighter admitted his patience is wearing thin, according to information published by bjpenn.
Alexander Volkov speaks out on UFC matchmakers
Volkov has been vocal in his opposition to recent decisions made by UFC matchmakers, particularly regarding the booking of Ciryl Gane versus Josh Hokit for the heavyweight title at UFC 334.
The Russian athlete previously made a surprise appearance at the pre-fight press conference in Abu Dhabi to directly present his case for a title shot to UFC CEO Dana White.
Why Alexander Volkov is no longer chasing the belt
In a recent interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Volkov explained that winning the official UFC heavyweight championship is no longer his primary career priority or goal.
Volkov stated that the belt does not define him as an athlete, emphasizing that he views himself as an uncrowned champion who knows his own capabilities inside the Octagon.
Defining a true martial artist in the UFC
The veteran heavyweight expressed strong views on what the championship should represent, stating that a titleholder must be a clean athlete and a true martial artist.
Volkov stressed that he fights clean, uses no performance-enhancing drugs, and respects all opponents, believing that his personal integrity defines the true value of being a champion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Alexander Volkov win at UFC 333?
Yes, Alexander Volkov secured a stoppage victory over Rizvan Kuniev on the undercard of UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi.
Is Alexander Volkov fighting for the UFC heavyweight title next?
No, Alexander Volkov stated that he is no longer hunting for the UFC heavyweight title after matchmakers booked Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit for UFC 334.
What did Alexander Volkov say on The Ariel Helwani Show?
Alexander Volkov stated that the championship belt does not define him, and that he considers himself a clean athlete and a true martial artist regardless of holding the title.
