Alexander VolkovvsTom Aspinall

This is the heavyweight title fight fans have been begging to see. Tom Aspinall, the interim champ who's been starching everyone in under a minute, against Alexander Volkov, the crafty Russian veteran who just beat Jailton Almeida in a split decision war. Aspinall's been on an absolute tear. Remember when he flatlined Sergei Pavlovich in 69 seconds at MSG? Or when he knocked Curtis Blaydes out cold in 60 seconds at UFC 304? The guy's a finishing machine. Volkov brings a completely different puzzle though. He's not rushing in to get caught.

The stylistic clash here is wild. Aspinall's explosive power and speed against Volkov's patient, technical striking and 7 foot reach. Drago showed against Pavlovich he can outpoint dangerous strikers, going the full 15 minutes and winning a decision. He's also got that nasty submission game, caught Tai Tuivasa with an ezekiel choke from mount. Aspinall hasn't seen the championship rounds much because nobody survives his early blitzes. That no contest against Gane due to an eye poke doesn't count, fight barely got started. Here's the thing, can Volkov survive that first round storm? And if he does, what happens when Aspinall has to fight deep into a five rounder for the first time?

Volkov's cardio looked solid going three hard rounds with both Gane and Almeida. The Russian's also shown he can mix in takedowns when needed, hitting 3 of 4 against Gane. His split decision loss to Gane at UFC 310 was razor close, could've gone either way. This would be for the undisputed heavyweight strap. Aspinall's speed and power versus Volkov's experience and range. The kind of fight that answers whether anyone can actually survive Aspinall's opening assault, or if Drago's the guy who finally solves the puzzle.