Friendships can be as fleeting as a knockout punch in the MMA world. Alexander Volkov and Sergei Pavlovich were once training partners who found themselves in a tense confrontation. The heavyweight contenders, both hailing from Russia, have a history of camaraderie. The unexpected drama unfolded during their weigh-in, catching even UFC CEO Dana White off guard.
The duo had helped each other prepare for fights in the past, but there are no friends in the octagon. Volkov, known for his towering 6’7″ frame, appeared genuinely upset during the face-off. He confronted Sergei Pavlovich in their native Russian. Both ignored Dana White’s attempts to separate them. The exchange was fiery, leaving spectators wondering what had sparked such animosity.
At the heart of the dispute was a miscommunication about the fight agreement. Alexander Volkov questioned Pavlovich about spreading misinformation regarding who accepted the bout first. It seems the UFC’s matchmaking tactics had stirred up some trouble in paradise. Although equally imposing at 6’3″, Pavlovich stood his ground during the heated exchange. Check out the clip with translations below:
🤬🇷🇺 Alexander Volkov confronted Sergei Pavlovich at the weigh ins:
“Why did you tell everyone that I was the first one to agree to this fight?” pic.twitter.com/PAI8MZnN8o
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) June 21, 2024
Caught in the middle, Dana White looked like a referee trying to separate two grizzly bears. This altercation was probably due to a miscommunication or mishandling of information by the UFC matchmakers. It was alleged that neither Pavlovich nor Volkov knew about the fight before it was announced. As for now, both Volkov and Pavlovich are looking to win this battle for a shot at the title.
Alexander Volkov focused on the title beyond this fight
The battle between the two Russian giants is set for tomorrow in the highly anticipated debut card in Saudi Arabia. The bout is the co-main event of this card. For Alexander Volkov, this inevitable matchup is a must-win, as he revealed recently. He aims to get his shot at the coveted title, but Sergei Pavlovich is in his way.Â
Alexander Volkov has eyes set for the title (via MMA Mania)Volkov is riding high on a three-fight win streak. He now has his sights set on gold. The heavyweight title is tantalizingly close, but one formidable obstacle remains – Pavlovich. Their shared history adds an intriguing layer to this already compelling matchup.
With all our history, our friendship, our sparring partner relationship, it was very hard to make this fight. But I have a three-fight win streak and I do not have any choice to cancel this fight. I have to get to my goal. I’m looking for the belt, I’m looking for the title.
Alexander Volkov via UFC.com
Volkov’s pursuit of the belt has led him to this moment of truth. He is no stranger to high-pressure situations. His recent submission victory over Tai Tuivasa showcased his evolving skillset. Nevertheless, Pavlovich presents a unique challenge as the Russian opponent has ended all six of his UFC wins by first-round knockout. As such, Volkov believes a title shot is necessary if he overcomes the dominant Pavlovich.
