Mark Vologdin in top form ahead of UFC debut against John Castaneda

Mark Vologdin is preparing for his UFC debut following an October loss on Dana White's Contender Series. Despite losing by decision, the 25-year-old Russian's performance was so spectacular that Dana White gave him a standing ovation, and both Vologdin and his victorious opponent Adrian Luna Martinetti received UFC contracts. Vologdin, who represents Petrozavodsk in the Republic of Karelia, holds a record of 12-4-1 with 6 knockouts and 4 submissions, and is a master of sport in Kyokushin karate. He will face experienced veteran John Castaneda, who has a 4-4 UFC record and last fought exactly one year ago, losing to Chris Gutierrez by split decision.