Mark Vologdin in shape ahead of UFC debut against John Castaneda

Mark Vologdin, 25, is preparing for his UFC debut after earning a contract despite losing a decision on DWCS in October. His performance was so exciting that Dana White gave him a standing ovation, and both he and winner Adrian Luna Martinetti received contracts. The Russian fighter from Petrozavodsk, Karelia holds a 12-4-1 record with 6 knockouts and 4 submissions, and is a master of sport in Kyokushin karate. He will face veteran John Castaneda, who is 4-4 in the UFC and last fought exactly one year ago, losing a split decision to Chris Gutierrez.