“He’ll Get It Done” – Stipe Miocic Believes Alexander Volkov Has What It Takes to Win UFC Heavyweigh
UFC 333 was a big night for Alexander Volkov. Despite spending nearly a decade in the promotion and making 20 Octagon appearances, the Russian heavyweight has yet to fight for UFC gold. And even after going 6-1 in his previous seven fights, he was overlooked for a title shot, with Josh Hokit getting the opportunity at UFC 334.
Volkov, however, responded in style by beating Rizvan Kuniev via unanimous decision and extending his winning streak. The only loss on his record over his last eight fights remains a controversial decision against Ciryl Gane at UFC 310, which many fans and even Dana White believed Volkov should have won.
With that in mind, plenty of fans believe the Russian deserves his next shot at the heavyweight title. However, nothing is guaranteed just yet. The UFC 335 matchup between Alex Pereira and Sergei Pavlovich could produce the division’s next title challenger, depending on how things play out.
Still, Volkov has received some major backing from former two-time heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic, who believes the veteran has what it takes to become champion.
Stipe Miocic Praises Alexander Volkov’s Experience and Longevity in the UFC Heavyweight Division
In a recent interview with casino.org/canada, Miocic praised Volkov’s experience and toughness, saying, “Volkov has fought everyone. He’s super tough. I have always watched him, and I’ve always rooted for him. I’m glad I never fought him, but I think if he gets the opportunity to become champion, he’ll get it done.”
Miocic also highlighted how Volkov has managed to remain competitive against the division’s best at 38. According to the former champion, the Russian is closer than ever to finally getting the job done.
He added, “I think he’s quick and it’s not like he goes into fights and gets smoked. I think he just does it his own way, and I think he’s right there.”
Miocic has a point. Since making his UFC debut in November 2016, Volkov has made 20 Octagon appearances and compiled a 15-5 promotional record. The Russian also entered the UFC with an impressive resume, having won heavyweight championships in Bellator MMA and M-1 Global.
Across his 52-fight professional MMA career, Volkov has put together a 41-11 record and established himself as one of the most experienced heavyweights on the roster. He also ranks second in UFC heavyweight history for significant strikes landed, with more than 1,324, and fourth for total fight time, having spent over four hours inside the Octagon.
His resume speaks for itself, with victories over former champions and established contenders such as Fabrício Werdum, Alistair Overeem, Roy Nelson, Jairzinho Rozenstruik, Tai Tuivasa, Sergei Pavlovich, and Jailton Almeida.
More importantly, Volkov has continued to deliver since his controversial loss to Gane in 2024. He has won three consecutive fights and is now 7-1 over his last eight appearances, with that disputed decision being his only defeat during the stretch.
At this stage of his career, another title opportunity could be exactly what Volkov needs to finally get his hands on UFC gold. Miocic clearly believes the Russian has what it takes, but whether the promotion gives him that chance remains to be seen.
After years of fighting his way through the heavyweight division, Volkov will be hoping his next big opportunity finally comes with a shot at the belt.