Mark Vologdin set for UFC debut against John Castaneda

Mark Vologdin, 25, is preparing for his UFC debut after earning a contract despite losing a decision on Dana White's Contender Series in October. The Russian's performance was so spectacular that Dana White gave him a standing ovation, and he received a contract alongside the winner Adrian Luna Martinetti. Vologdin holds a record of 12-4-1 with 6 knockouts and 4 submissions, represents Petrozavodsk in the Republic of Karelia, and is a master of sports in Kyokushin karate. He will face veteran John Castaneda, who has a 4-4 record in the UFC and last fought exactly one year ago, losing to Chris Gutierrez by split decision.