Alexander Volkov spoke with TASS about his fight on Victory Day, stating he completed his mission. The details of his comments are limited in the source post, which primarily promotes video content. Volkov's remarks emphasize the significance of competing on the Russian national holiday commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany. The full context of his mission statement requires viewing the accompanying video interview.
Alexander Volkov has reflected on the meaning of competing on Victory Day, telling TASS that he felt he completed his mission by fighting on the Russian national holiday marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
Volkov, known as "Drago," stopped short of elaborating extensively in the written portion of the interview, with the bulk of his remarks reserved for an accompanying video. His comments nonetheless underscored how much significance he attached to the date itself, framing the bout as something beyond a routine professional assignment.
The 37-year-old Russian heavyweight is currently ranked number one in the UFC's heavyweight division, making him one of the most prominent figures in the sport's biggest weight class. Standing six-foot-seven with an 80-inch reach, Volkov presents an unusually difficult physical puzzle for any opponent. Competing out of Strela Team, he carries a professional record of 40 wins and 11 losses, and his output inside the octagon is notable — he lands 4.78 significant strikes per minute at a striking accuracy of 57 percent.
Why it matters
- Volkov is the top-ranked UFC heavyweight, meaning his performances carry direct implications for a potential title shot
- Competing on a date of deep national importance in Russia adds a layer of personal motivation to an already high-stakes position in the division
- His combination of elite striking volume and a frame few heavyweights can match makes him a stylistically unique figure at the top of the rankings
