Volkov vs Cortes-Acosta Prediction
📢 The main card of UFC 328 promises an intriguing heavyweight clash, serving as a hidden contender bout. Seasoned Russian veteran Alexander Volkov steps into the octagon against the rapidly rising American Waldo Cortes-Acosta. For "Drago," it's a chance to solidify his championship aspirations, while "Salsa Boy" aims for the biggest upset of his career. Read the prediction for their duel below.
Fighter Facts
Alexander Volkov
- Beyond his athletic achievements, he holds an engineering degree from the prestigious Bauman Moscow State Technical University.
- He is a unique fighter, having secured championship belts in two of the world's three major leagues - Bellator and M-1 Global.
- Standing at 201 cm, Alexander is one of the tallest fighters on the UFC roster.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta
- Before transitioning to mixed martial arts, he was a professional baseball player, which helped him develop explosive power in his hands.
- He earned the nickname "Salsa Boy" for his habit of celebrating victories in the octagon with lively Latin American dance moves.
- He has fought six heavyweight bouts in the past 14 months.
H2H Stats Fights and Previous Results
Alexander Volkov Player Overview
Alexander Volkov embarked on his professional journey back in 2009 and has since claimed championship titles in organizations such as Bellator and M-1 Global. With black belts in karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the Russian fighter has emerged as one of the most technically gifted heavyweights in the world. In the UFC, he has competed in 18 bouts, securing 13 victories and proving his mettle against the global MMA elite. His recent triumph over Jailton Almeida showcased Volkov's ability to successfully counter elite grapplers while maintaining composure under pressure. Despite a recent controversial loss to Ciryl Gane, Alexander remains just a step away from a title shot, thanks to his phenomenal fight IQ. Currently at the peak of his form, Volkov combines immense experience with unique physical attributes and refined striking skills.
Match Results: Alexander Volkov
Waldo Cortes-Acosta Player Overview
Waldo Cortes-Acosta burst onto the mixed martial arts scene in 2018 and quickly paved his way to the UFC, clinching the LFA championship title and impressing in Dana White's Contender Series. The American heavyweight caught the league's attention with his remarkable activity, having fought six times in the past year alone. His record in the premier promotion boasts nine victories, highlighted by a brutal knockout against the legendary Derrick Lewis. Known for his heavy strikes and natural power, Waldo prefers an aggressive fighting style, aiming to break down opponents in stand-up exchanges. The only significant setback in his career came against Sergei Pavlovich, exposing some defensive gaps against elite all-rounders. Nonetheless, Cortes-Acosta remains a highly dangerous adversary, capable of turning the tide of any match with a single precise strike.
Match Results: Waldo Cortes-Acosta
⭐ Editorial Prediction
Alexander Volkov emerges as the clear favorite in this matchup, thanks to his extensive technical arsenal and ability to maintain distance. The American, despite his power and activity, has yet to face a fighter with the discipline and reach of Volkov. "Drago" will leverage his height and reach advantage, keeping Cortes-Acosta at bay with his jab and consistently breaking him down with front kicks to the body. Considering that Waldo often stalls against more technical opponents, Alexander is likely to methodically rack up points and fully control the pace of the fight. We anticipate Volkov will secure a victory by a confident decision or finish an exhausted American.