UFC commentator and Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier has publicly advocated for Alexander Volkov to receive the next opportunity to fight for the UFC heavyweight championship. The endorsement follows Volkov’s unanimous decision victory over Rizvan Kuniev at UFC 333, which took place on Saturday in Abu Dhabi.
The 38-year-old Volkov has demonstrated significant momentum in the heavyweight division, securing seven victories in his last eight appearances. His recent win over Kuniev extended his current winning streak to three fights, further solidifying his position as a top contender within the promotion.
In a discussion on his YouTube channel, Cormier noted that Volkov has effectively re-established his credentials for a title opportunity. He suggested that the Russian fighter has done enough to warrant a shot at the gold, provided certain external factors do not interfere with the division's hierarchy.
Cormier stated, "Volkov got a big victory. I thought Volkov cemented himself as the No. 1 contender as long as Tom Aspinall is not right back after the title fight in November. Or unless Alex Pereira has an insane knockout of Sergei Pavlovich."
While Cormier believes Volkov is deserving, he acknowledged that the path to a title fight remains complicated by other high-profile contenders. Former champion Tom Aspinall, who vacated the belt earlier this year, is considered a primary candidate for a title opportunity if he is medically cleared for a return.
Additionally, the outcome of the upcoming UFC 335 bout between Alex Pereira and Sergei Pavlovich could influence the UFC's decision-making process. A high-profile performance from Pereira could potentially alter the current trajectory for the heavyweight title picture.
Volkov has been increasingly vocal about his desire for a championship bout. During the build-up to UFC 333, he famously engaged in a public exchange with UFC CEO Dana White, questioning what further steps were required to secure a title fight.
The heavyweight division is currently focused on the upcoming UFC 334 main event, where champion Ciryl Gane is scheduled to defend his title against challenger Josh Hokit. Volkov has previously expressed frustration that he was not selected for this specific matchup.
Despite his disappointment regarding the UFC 334 booking, Volkov’s performance at UFC 333 has been widely praised for its aggression and technical execution. Cormier noted that while a finish would have been ideal, the quality of Volkov's performance was sufficient to make a strong case.
Volkov’s professional record now stands at 41 wins and 11 losses. His only defeat in the last two years came in a controversial split decision against Ciryl Gane at UFC 310 in December 2024, a result that continues to be a point of discussion among fans and analysts.
The UFC 333 event, held at the Etihad Arena in Dubai, also featured a successful featherweight title defense by Alexander Volkanovski, who defeated Movsar Evloev. The card was considered a significant night for several established fighters looking to cement their legacies.
As the division awaits the outcome of UFC 334, the pressure on the promotion to define the next challenger remains high. Volkov’s recent form and his vocal advocacy for a title shot have ensured that he remains a central figure in the heavyweight conversation.
The UFC has not yet confirmed the next steps for the heavyweight division beyond the scheduled title bout in November. Whether Volkov’s recent victory will be enough to bypass other potential challengers remains a subject of speculation within the MMA community.
Cormier’s support provides a significant boost to Volkov’s campaign, given the commentator's influence and deep knowledge of the division. For now, the veteran heavyweight continues to wait for official confirmation regarding his next assignment.
Volkov’s recent efforts to connect with an international audience have also raised his profile. By adopting a more outspoken persona, he has successfully generated increased interest in his career trajectory and his pursuit of the ultimate prize in the sport.
The heavyweight landscape is currently in a state of flux, with multiple contenders vying for attention. Volkov’s consistency over his last 20 octagon appearances serves as a testament to his longevity and his ability to remain competitive at the highest level.
As the promotion looks toward the final months of 2026, the heavyweight division is expected to see significant movement. The results of the upcoming title fights will ultimately dictate the path for contenders like Volkov, who remain hungry for a championship opportunity.
The UFC continues to evaluate its options, balancing the merit of recent performances against the commercial appeal of potential matchups. Volkov’s case rests on his recent win streak and his ability to consistently perform against top-tier opposition.
With the dust settled on UFC 333, the focus now shifts to the next major events. Volkov remains in a position of strength, waiting to see if his persistence will finally be rewarded with the title fight he has been pursuing.
Ultimately, the decision rests with the UFC leadership. Volkov has made his intentions clear, and with the backing of respected figures like Cormier, his claim to a title shot has never been more prominent.
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